Chibinang, September 19: An A·king Nokma (traditional village chief), residents and representatives of several organisations held a public meeting at Chibinang Chandigre Playground on Saturday, demanding that trading opportunities at local markets be reserved for indigenous Garo people.
The meeting was attended by more than 20 local Nokmas (village chiefs), various NGOs including ACHIK, GSMC, NGCO, ANYO, ADIL, GES, and DINDAM, as well as a large number of local residents.
The participants unanimously resolved to seek a halt to businesses and food stalls operated by non-tribal traders at the weekly Tuesday market in Chibinang. They demanded that the trading spaces instead be properly allotted to local Garo entrepreneurs at the new Bikkonggre Market.
The meeting also decided to submit a written petition to the district council opposing the allotment or leasing of shops on council land to non-tribal traders. The participants urged the authorities to prioritise local Garos when allocating commercial spaces.
They further demanded immediate action against allegedly unauthorised structures and businesses operated by non-tribals on district council land.
After the meeting, the participants took out a protest march from Chandigre Playground to Chibinang Market, raising slogans against its reopening. The procession concluded peacefully.
Representatives of organisations including ACHIK, GSMC, NGCO, ANYO, ADIL, GES and DINDAM travelled from Tura and Simsanggre in Williamnagar to participate in the programme.
