Amidst Bangladesh Crisis, BJP Leader Suggests Setting Up ‘Humanitarian Camp’ For Tribals Who Enter Meghalaya

HDC MDC Bernard Marak writes to Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma proposing the creation of a camp for the Garo, Khasi, and other tribal groups

Amidst the turmoil in neighbouring Bangladesh, Garo Hills Autonomous District Council MDC and Meghalaya BJP leader Bernard Marak has called for the establishment of a ‘humanitarian camp’ for tribal communities entering the state from Bangladesh.

Marak, who is also the vice president of Meghalaya BJP, sent a letter to Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma proposing the creation of a camp for the Garo, Khasi, and other tribal groups arriving from Bangladesh.

In his letter, Marak requested that a humanitarian camp be set up to support these refugees, contingent upon their entry into India being permitted.

Marak emphasized that these tribal groups should be provided with temporary shelter and support. Additionally, he stressed that the government must ensure these tribal refugees are deported back to Bangladesh once the situation there improves.

The Meghalaya BJP vice president also proposed utilizing the Mahari system in Garo Hills to assist in the identification, rehabilitation, and eventual deportation of the refugees.

Speaking to Northeast Live over the phone, Marak stated, “Although there have been no reports of anyone from the tribal community entering Garo Hills in the last three days, I believe that if any crisis or victimization occurs and tribals cross into Meghalaya, the proper approach would be to rehabilitate them in a camp.”

“They need to be rehabilitated and traced. Otherwise, it will be difficult to deport them back when the situation improves,” Marak added.

When asked if he expected a positive response from the Meghalaya government, Marak replied, “It is up to the state government. I have only given my opinion and suggestions. People might sneak in illegally, and those living on the border could potentially cross over. It is important to address this possibility.”

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