Assam: Garo community to end boycott, to participate in Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council elections

The Garo community has announced its participation in the upcoming Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC) elections, scheduled for April 2. The resolution was taken during an executive meeting of the Garo National Council (GNC) held at Shantipur, Boko.

The meeting brought together several key Garo organizations, including the Garo National Council, Garo Women's Council, and Garo Youth Council. Representatives from various Garo villages in Kamrup and Goalpara districts, along with village elders, also took part in the discussions. Among the notable attendees were Inindra Marak, President of the Kamrup District GNC, Ellen Brooks, spokesperson of the Assam Christian Forum, and Sunil P. Marak, advisor to the GNC, alongside other prominent Garo leaders.

The Garo community had previously boycotted two consecutive RHAC elections, demanding a separate Garo Autonomous Council. However, after reassessing the situation, leaders have now decided to actively participate in the electoral process. According to Sunil P. Marak, the RHAC’s developmental schemes benefit multiple communities, including the Garos, making it essential for them to elect representatives who will advocate for their interests and ensure progress in Garo-dominated villages.

Despite this renewed electoral participation, the demand for a separate Garo Autonomous Council remains firm. Ellen Brooks reiterated that the formation of such a council is a legitimate aspiration, but discussions are needed on whether it should be included under the Sixth or Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution. He further emphasized that active engagement in democratic processes, including elections, is crucial to achieving the community’s goals.

Brooks also highlighted the lack of Rabha or Garo representation in the legislative assembly (MLA) from the RHAC region, stating that external forces have exploited divisions between the two communities. Meanwhile, Sunil P. Marak confirmed that over 300 revenue and non-revenue Garo villages from Rani to Joyramkuchi are preparing to cast their votes on April 2, marking a significant step in the community’s political engagement.