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Karbi Organizations Urge Peace Amid Rising Tensions in West Karbi Anglong

In response to escalating violence in West Karbi Anglong, various Karbi organizations have come together to call for peace and dialogue. They emphasize that legitimate demands should not be pursued through violent means. The groups condemned recent incidents and highlighted the importance of resolving disputes through democratic processes. They expressed hope for a peaceful resolution under the leadership of local officials, urging all stakeholders to maintain communal harmony and exercise restraint. This appeal comes amid a backdrop of heightened tensions and unrest in the region.
 

Call for Restraint and Dialogue


Jorabat, Dec 24: In light of escalating tensions following recent violence in West Karbi Anglong, various Karbi organizations based outside the hill district have expressed deep concern and issued a strong plea for peace, dialogue, and restraint, emphasizing that legitimate demands should not be pursued through violent means.


During a press conference held in Sonapur, representatives from several Karbi groups, united under the Scheduling Demand Coordination Committee of Karbis (Mikirs), condemned the unfortunate incidents that took place in the Kheroni and Donkamokam regions of West Karbi Anglong. They described the current situation as distressing, particularly for Karbi individuals living outside the hill district.


Amar Ronghang, who serves as the coordinator for the Scheduling Demand Coordination Committee of Karbis (Mikirs) and is also the president of the All Assam Karbi Students’ Association, stated, “The call for the protection of Karbi land, including Professional Grazing Reserves (PGR) and Village Grazing Reserves (VGR), is justified and grounded in constitutional rights. However, resorting to violence, arson, and property destruction is not the way to achieve these objectives.”


While recognizing the legitimacy of the demand to protect Karbi land and indigenous rights, the organizations firmly stated that violence is not an acceptable approach.


Specifically addressing the arson attack on the ancestral home of KAAC Chief Executive Member Tuliram Ronghang, they labeled the incident as “extremely unfortunate and shameful.” They noted that such violent acts not only damage the reputation of the Karbi community but also lead society towards division and instability.


They emphasized that all matters, including land disputes, should be resolved through dialogue, democratic processes, and legal means.


In their appeal, they urged all parties involved to practice restraint and foster peace and communal harmony. They expressed optimism that, under Tuliram Ronghang's leadership and with administrative cooperation, a peaceful and enduring resolution to the issues at hand is achievable.