Jowai: Meghalaya student body, Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU), has issued an urgent appeal to the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC), demanding immediate measures to address issues affecting the indigenous tribal population in the region.
The union emphasised the need for decisive action to safeguard the rights, livelihoods, and cultural identity of the local tribes.
The JSU highlighted concerns over the issuance of trading licenses and employment permits to non-tribal individuals, arguing that such practices undermine opportunities for indigenous residents.
It urged the JHADC to prioritise local tribal communities in trade and employment to protect their economic interests.
The union also expressed strong opposition to the approval of railway projects in the region, stressing that no permissions should be granted until the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system is implemented in Meghalaya.
According to the JSU, proceeding with railway developments without ILP could lead to an influx of migrants, posing a significant threat to the demographic and cultural fabric of the Jaintia Hills.
Allegations of misuse of tribal names by non-tribal-run businesses were also raised.
The JSU called for rigorous inspections to identify fraudulent practices, urging the revocation of licenses and strict enforcement measures to ensure compliance.
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Additionally, the union voiced concerns over benami transactions in the region, demanding strict adherence to the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1998, and immediate action against offenders.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting the interests of the indigenous community, the JSU urged the JHADC to act swiftly to address these issues.
The union warned that failure to take appropriate measures could lead to further legal action to ensure justice and preserve the identity of the Jaintia Hills tribes.
