Garo Hills Council Bars Non-Tribals from Acquiring Land Under Sixth Schedule

The Garo Hills Autonomous District Council in Meghalaya has issued a notification under the Sixth Schedule barring non-tribal persons from acquiring, purchasing, or claiming land in the Garo Hills districts. The directive aims to protect indigenous tribal land rights and prevent land alienation. Existing lawful holdings by non-tribals before the notification remain valid, but further transfers require prior approval. The council also prohibits benami transactions involving tribal land held for non-tribal benefits. The order is effective immediately.