SHILLONG, June 1: State BJP vice president and Tura MDC, Bernard N Marak, on Sunday expressed concern over the Garo Customary Law (GCL), stating that the original draft has been delayed due to numerous modifications introduced by various committees. The draft was earlier returned by the former Governor for corrections.
“I want the Garo Customary Law to be assented to by the Governor in its original form, without violating the traditional practices of the clans, sub-tribes, Nokmas, and womenfolk of the Garo society, which is matrilineal,” Marak said.
He recalled that during the session, he had raised questions regarding the unauthorised modifications made to the GCL without the consent of the clans and other stakeholders who form the backbone of Garo society.
According to Marak, the matrilineal structure of the Garo community has been compromised, as the importance of the female bloodline was overlooked. He pointed out that women were neither consulted nor were their opinions sought during the drafting process.
He further added that even the Nokmas—many of whom are women—were not consulted, and the 12 sub-tribes were excluded from the process of framing the law.
He added that a delegation representing the deprived sections of society will soon submit a memorandum to the authorities seeking a review.
