Biplab Kr Dey
Tura, Mar 23: Following the tumult that the region of Garo Hills has seen over the past few weeks over the right to contest the polls to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), a unanimous decision was taken this afternoon in a special session held at the Tura Council office wherein an order was passed making an ST certificate mandatory to contest the elections to the GHADC.
The special session was convened by DCA following the massive outburst of violence in the region which saw 2 dead and damage to property in numerous places and arson. The session will conclude tomorrow, Mar 24.
The issue of participation of non-tribals in the GHADC has remained a controversial topic with no legislation actually barring residents of all hues from contesting the election as well voting. While an order had been passed earlier by the former CEM of GHADC, Albinush Marak, it was later quashed by the Meghalaya HC.
The issue had remained unresolved for over 74 years, with no previous Executive Committee taking steps to amend the existing provisions.
Following the violence that erupted, Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma announced the postponement of the elections and assured that the matter would be resolved.
Within 10 days of this announcement, the GHADC passed the amendment, which will now be sent to the Governor for assent.
Following the passing of the decision, Conrad met 1000s of supporters at the Tura NPP office terming the decision a historic victory for the A’chik community. He stated that the GHADC exists to safeguard tribal autonomy and the amendment would ensure that the Council is governed and administered by its own people.
He expressed his gratitude to party leaders, workers, and supporters for their unity and collective efforts in advancing the interests of the Garo community.
He also extended his appreciation to the present CEM, Dhormonath Ch. Sangma, and all Members of District Council (MDCs) for standing together in passing the amendment.
Appealing for peace and harmony, he urged all sections of society to refrain from any form of violence and to work collectively in the interest of the State and its people. He reiterated that the welfare and interests of the people remain the foremost priority of the NPP.
He further informed that the Council will also take necessary steps to address the long-standing demand for a separate electoral roll for the GHADC.
Cabinet Ministers Marcuise Marak and Timothy D Shira, Speaker Thomas A. Sangma, along with party MLAs, were present at the NPP office to mark the occasion and celebrate what was described as a victory of the people.
The amendment will now be sent to the DCA before a call is taken on the matter by the Meghalaya Governor for his assent.
