Govt committed to ensuring rights of Garo community: Adviser Rizwana

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministries of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and Water Resources, reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting the rights of the Garo community.

During her speech as the chief guest at the Wangala festival on Friday, held at Banani Bidyaniketan School and College, she emphasized that legal measures would be introduced to safeguard the community's land rights, water rights, and their ability to extract forest resources.

Wangala, a significant cultural event for the Garo people, symbolizes the deep connection between nature and human society, celebrating the harvest season with gratitude toward nature. Rizwana urged all to protect the environment and preserve natural resources, as the Garo community has long done.

She also highlighted the government's ongoing efforts to address conflicts between forest-dependent communities and the Forest Department, including amendments to social forestry regulations. The Indigenous Council has begun working to secure the rights of the Garo people, with local authorities directed to demarcate disputed land boundaries in the Modhupur Forest.

Furthermore, the adviser noted that local development initiatives would now include forest residents to ensure they are not left behind. The Ministries of Land and Water Resources will work together to tackle illegal sand and stone extraction, and public participation is vital for successful forest conservation.

The event also featured traditional Garo dance and music.

At that time, the adviser unveiled a special magazine published in honor of the Wangala festival, which was attended by representatives from local and international organizations, cultural activists, students, and various members of the Garo community.

Wangala continues to play a crucial role in promoting and preserving the cultural heritage of the Garo people.