GHADC polls
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 4: A section of BJP leaders has voiced opposition to the party’s decision to field Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates in the upcoming Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections, advocating for the traditional system that allowed candidates from any community to contest. The dissent, however, was overruled by senior and prominent leaders. Bernard N Marak, State BJP Vice President and Tura MDC, said those opposed may consider joining other political parties following the decision.
Marak emphasised that the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution was designed to safeguard the interests of Hill Tribals, ensuring that bonafide voters in the Garo Hills prior to Independence are not disenfranchised. “The decision to field ST candidates is not aimed at any specific community or caste but underscores the constitutional imperative of representing Scheduled Tribes in Autonomous District Councils,” he said.
He further noted that BJP leaders also discussed measures to delete dual and doubtful voters, highlighting that some parties have weakened Tribal Autonomy by introducing general provisions in ADCs.
The party leadership concluded that nominating ST candidates fully aligns with the Sixth Schedule and the principles of tribal representation.
