03/03/2026
Former MDC calls for BTC-style ‘GaroLand
SHILLONG, March 2: Former MDC and ex-Phulbari MLA SG Estamur Mominin has proposed the creation of a separate “GaroLand” modelled after the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), arguing that such a structure would ensure direct central funding and accelerate development in the Garo Hills.
Mominin stated that bodies like the BTC receive financial support directly from the Union government, enabling faster implementation of infrastructure and administrative projects. He argued that establishing GaroLand under a similar constitutional framework would strengthen governance and reduce the region’s dependency on state-level allocations.
Greater autonomy, he noted, would allow the Garo Hills to set its own development priorities, citing the progress seen in other autonomous regions under direct funding arrangements.
However, Mominin clarified that such a move requires constitutional amendments, as the authority to create new autonomous structures rests with Parliament. He acknowledged that the state government alone cannot fulfill this demand and that it would require approval at the national level.
Urging unity across communities, Mominin called on Garo Hills stakeholders to collectively pursue the demand to secure structured growth, stronger local administration, and improved access to Central resources.
