Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K Sangma advocates for Khasi and Garo Language recognition and Inner Line Permit in Meeting with Amit Shah

Shillong: In a meeting held on Sept 4 in New Delhi, chief minister Conrad K Sangma engaged with Union home affairs and cooperation minister Amit Shah to address critical issues impacting the northeastern state.

The discussions centered on securing constitutional recognition for the Garo and Khasi languages and implementing the Inner Line Permit (ILP) regime to protect the tribal-majority state from external migration pressures.Sangma emphasized the necessity of including Khasi and Garo languages in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution, a move he described as essential for the “recognition and preservation of our indigenous languages.”

This demand reflects a growing call for cultural preservation among Meghalaya’s communities.Additionally, Sangma advocated for the creation of a separate administrative cadre for Meghalaya, which currently shares a joint cadre with Assam. This change aims to enhance administrative autonomy and efficiency within the state.The long-standing issue of implementing the ILP in Meghalaya was also a focal point of the discussions.

The ILP is seen as a crucial measure to safeguard the identity and interests of the state's indigenous population.In a gesture of homage, Sangma proposed naming a road in the national capital after the late PA Sangma, honouring one of India’s most esteemed leaders and statesmen.Expressing gratitude for the support and guidance received, Sangma shared his appreciation for Amit Shah’s engagement on social media following the meeting.