Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday assured that the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) will address longstanding issues related to Scheduled Tribe (ST) certificates and reaffirmed the party’s commitment to public welfare, while urging unity following recent unrest in Garo Hills that left two people dead.

Speaking to NPP leaders and supporters in Tura, the headquarters of West Garo Hills, Sangma reaffirmed the party’s dedication to the principles of its founder, P.A. Sangma. “The NPP will resolve the ST certificate issue. We will continue to serve the people with dedication and commitment,” he said.

The violence occurred early Tuesday in Chibinang, West Garo Hills, after police opened fire on protesters from the Garo tribal community opposing non-Garo candidates filing nominations for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections. The clashes resulted in two deaths, with reports of arson, assaults, and large gatherings in Tura and across the region’s five districts.

The unrest followed a Meghalaya High Court ruling on Tuesday that struck down a government notification requiring ST certificates for GHADC nominations. The notification would have barred non-tribals from contesting, ending a seven-decade practice.

Sangma urged party workers to remain united. “No one can weaken the morale of the NPP. Let us stand united and work together to further strengthen the party,” he said. He also appealed for peace, citing Christian values: “As Christians, we are taught to love and forgive. At this moment, we must come together as one and promote unity and brotherhood.”

The chief minister commended the police, district administration, and officials for restoring order, and thanked Tura residents for cleaning debris and aiding recovery. He also praised religious leaders and community groups for promoting calm. Security remains heightened as authorities continue to monitor the situation.