Fund constraints delay separation of judiciary from executive

SHILLONG: After the separation of the Executive from the Judiciary in Meghalaya in 2010-11, financial constraints have delayed the separation of judiciary in five districts of the State.
Out of the total 11 districts, South Garo Hills, South West Garo Hills, South West Khasi Hills, North Garo Hills and East Jaintia Hills are yet to separate Executive from Judiciary.
An official source said that funds constraints for creation of infrastructure and non availability of advocates in the new districts are the hurdles for the complete separation of Judiciary from the Executive in the State.
“At least Rs.20 crore is required only to set up infrastructure especially to construct buildings in each district,” the official said.
Moreover, the minimum salary component for the judicial officers per year will come to around Rs.1.50 crore, he added.
In the last five years, Meghalaya has been able to separate Judiciary from Executive in six districts starting with East Khasi Hills.
The official pointed out that neighbouring Assam was yet to carry out complete separation in all the districts due to lack of infrastructure facilities.