From Our Correspondent
JOWAI, July 8: The Summer Session of the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) concluded within 50 minutes on Monday following heated exchanges and a walkout. The Assembly, chaired by JHADC Chairman Dr. Sankey Shangpung, saw fiery contentions before the Question Hour commenced.
Leader of Opposition Awhai Andrew Shullai, prior to the Question Hour, criticised the ruling party for disallowing him from discussing issues beneficial to the Council.
The JHADC Chairman, after rejecting a motion for discussion raised by Shullai, asserted his right to reject any motion, prompting Shullai to then not only cite rules of motion admissibility but also accuse the Chairman of high-handedness.
Shullai’s motion aimed to discuss the JHADC’s e-governance initiative, highlighting that their website had not been updated for five years. Accusing the NPP-led Executive Committee (EC) of fearing to admit their administrative failures, Shullai criticised the EC for its dictatorial style, claiming it diminishes the Council’s glory.
Shullai condemned the ruling party for lacking a solid basis to raise Council issues.
“If this is the case, there is no need to hold a session,” Shullai said.
A disgruntled Shullai then left the House, calling the situation an insult to the session.
The session ended with only Question and Reply sessions and Obituary References.
During the brief session, the JHADC CEM also presented the official report on the promotion of two council officers, viz. H. Pariem and D. Pohchen.
