Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday underlined that the ‘One North East’ initiative is a unifying platform for indigenous communities, not a movement directed against any individual, organisation, or state. Speaking to reporters after arriving in Agartala to attend a large public gathering at Swami Vivekananda Maidan, Sangma said the initiative seeks to ensure that the voices of the region’s diverse tribal communities are heard strongly and collectively.
Sangma stressed that when indigenous groups act alone, their concerns often go unnoticed or undervalued. “When people remain individual and are not united, their voices are suppressed and sometimes not heard,” he said, adding that the platform aims to unite communities so they can advocate more effectively for their rights, culture, and development.
Clarifying misconceptions, the Chief Minister said, “This has nothing to do with anybody else, nor are we trying to go against anyone. This is purely about bringing all of us together.” He explained that the initiative is anchored in solidarity—sharing concerns, supporting one another, and ensuring that no community feels isolated.
He expressed satisfaction over the strong response from leaders representing various tribes and communities across the region, describing it as an encouraging sign of collective resolve. The initiative, he added, would help amplify northeastern voices not just within the region but across the entire country.
“This will send a powerful message—that indigenous people of this region are coming together, and we are going to work together and fight together for future generations,” Sangma said. While acknowledging that challenges persist, he noted that the commitment to unity and collaboration remains strong. “We are focused and sure that we will take this forward for the welfare of our people,” he added.
