Margherita Family Disputes Ancestral Property Claims After Patriarch's Death

Guwahati: A Margherita Adivasi family is pushing for government intervention to resolve a bitter fight over ancestral land. Abhinash Kerketta, the man claiming to be the son of the late James Kerketta’s first wife, filed formal requests with the Margherita Co-District Commissioner and local police. He wants his legal slice of the estate.

The dispute stems from the complex marital history of James Kerketta. Abhinash asserts his father married a second time without ever divorcing his first wife, Beronika Kerketta, who also uses the name Soreng. She is still alive. James Kerketta died on December 23 last year after battling a long illness. Now, the surviving family members are locked in a struggle over his immovable property.

Abhinash demands the administration look at the documents and back his claim. He specifically urged the office to “examine the matter and provide appropriate assistance in accordance with the applicable law.” Officials are currently working to verify property deeds and legal records to untangle the mess. The authorities have not yet issued a final ruling on the inheritance.