SHILLONG: KHADC CEM P.N. Syiem on Monday informed that they will leave for New Delhi to demand setting up of a separate cell under the Union Home ministry to look into the issues of the district councils.
Syiem, while addressing reporters on Monday here, said the autonomous district councils (ADCs) of the region have expressed gratitude towards the Central government for sanctioning funds for the ADCs.
In a meeting held with the Forum of Councils under Sixth Schedule (FOCUSS) members, Syiem, who is the chairman, said, “There are several members who have agreed to the demand for a separate Ministry for the district councils for the smooth functioning of various works.”
“At most times, the money released by the Centre goes through the State government which delays in releasing the amount. The State government should pay interest along with the principal amount for the delay while releasing the funds to the district councils,” he added.
“We will try to meet Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the manner in which money is released to the district councils and other hardships faced by the ADCs,” Syiem said.
He added that the transfer of special assistance will not affect the ADCs as they will enjoy the principal amount and interest.
On the other hand, Member Secretary, FOCUSS, and CEM of the North Cachar Autonomous Council (NCAC), Debojit Thaosen, said, “It would be better if the Centre sanctions more funds as currently NCAC is getting Rs. 34 crore and this is not enough as compared to the KHADC and the Bodoland Territorial Council.”
Pointing out that several schemes including the Hill Area Development Project and BRGF had been stopped, Thaosen said, “FOCUSS will demand for revival of these schemes.”
Interestingly, Thaosen pointed out that whenever the NCAC faces difficulty in disbursing salaries to the employees of the council, on most occasions the Assam government helps them out. “The Assam government and the Council work together unlike in Meghalaya,” he stated.
