SHILLONG : The Jaintia National Council (JNC) has strongly rejected allegations made by Leader of Opposition Dr Mukul Sangma that students join non-government organisations mainly to collect illegal money.
Speaking at a public gathering organised by the Nangrimgimin Achik Dol (NAD) in Ampati, South West Garo Hills, JNC president Sambormi Lyngdoh said such claims are misleading and disrespectful to the youth who dedicate their time to community causes.
Lyngdoh stated that students do not become members of organisations for financial gain but to defend their communities, protect indigenous rights, and raise issues that affect their future.
According to him, the increasing participation of young people in civil society organisations reflects a growing lack of trust in political leadership. Many students and community members believe that NGOs and pressure groups have been more proactive in highlighting critical issues such as protection of indigenous land, safeguarding traditional rights, and addressing social challenges faced by local communities.
The meeting organised by the NAD coalition brought together representatives from various NGOs across the Garo Hills region to discuss pressing regional concerns.
One of the major issues raised during the gathering was the demand for swift and fair justice in the killing of Delsing Marak, a member of one of the organisations under the NAD coalition. Civil society leaders urged authorities to ensure that those responsible for the incident are identified and brought to justice without delay.
Participants also called on the government to take strong and immediate action against illegal Bangladeshi migrants reportedly settled in parts of Garo Hills. According to the organisations, the issue has raised serious concerns regarding demographic changes, regional security, and the protection of indigenous communities and their ancestral lands.
Leaders at the gathering emphasised that elected representatives must show greater accountability in addressing these concerns. They reiterated that civil society organisations will continue to play a key role in defending the rights and interests of indigenous communities in Meghalaya.
The meeting was followed by a public rally in Ampati, which witnessed significant participation from NGOs and community representatives from across the Garo Hills region, reflecting widespread concern over governance, security, and the protection of indigenous rights.