Tura, March 27: In a significant development, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday announced the formation of a high-level committee, headed by a cabinet minister, to study and preserve the legacy of the Garo Labour Corps- a group that played a crucial role at the frontlines of battle during the first great war (World War I).
The chief minister announced the formation of the committee during a meeting with the Joint NGOs Forum in Tura after its members called on him to register their strong protest against the dismantling of the century old historic monument erected in memory of hundreds of Garo men who laid down their lives in France during the war.
The chief minister informed the delegation that the committee would be chaired by a cabinet minister and composed of members from civil society organizations (CSOs) that will focus on researching the contributions of the Garo Labour Corps while also promoting the language and culture of the Garo community.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy of the Garo Labour Corps and ensuring that the cultural identity of the Garos is safeguarded for future generations.
The announcement came after an hour-long meeting in Tura with representatives of CSOs, who raised concerns over the recent demolition of the World War I cenotaph at Lower Babupara. The cenotaph, long regarded as a symbol of Garo honour and sacrifice, was demolished as part of a redevelopment project, sparking widespread outrage among the indigenous population of Garo Hills.
The CSOs have viewed the demolition as a disregard for the Community’s heritage that was initiated without any public consultation.
Its demolition and plans for its redevelopment has put the Tura Municipal Board (TMB) and the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of West Garo Hills under intense scrutiny. Following the public backlash, the DC had earlier formed a consultative committee to address the issue. However, this move was rejected by the CSOs, who cited alleged inconsistencies in its formation and functioning.
The newly announced committee, spearheaded by a cabinet minister, is seen as a response to these grievances, aiming to bridge the gap between the government and the community.
