By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 24: Voice of the People Party (VPP) supremo Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit on Tuesday said sustained public protests had brought the NPP-led MDA Government “to its knees,” while crediting multiple stakeholders for the decision to make a Schedule Tribe (ST) certificate mandatory for candidates contesting Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections.
Basaiawmoit stated that the issue was first initiated by BJP MDC Bernard N. Marak and also highlighted the role of former Chief Executive Member (CEM) Albinush R. Marak, who had earlier issued a notification making ST certificates mandatory for all candidates. He added that protestors played a decisive role in the development, asserting that their pressure ultimately forced the government to respond.
Meanwhile, the BJP on Tuesday welcomed Governor C. H. Vijayashankar’s assent to a resolution passed by the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) making a Schedule Tribe (ST) certificate mandatory for contesting District Council elections.
In a statement issued by BJP state general secretary Wankitbok Pohshna, the party termed the move a landmark step towards safeguarding the constitutional and cultural rights of the Achik people, saying it strengthens protections for indigenous identity and ensures that democratic representation reflects the aspirations of tribal communities.
The BJP stated that the resolution was spearheaded at its onset by party MDC from Tura, Bernard Marak, and received support from 25 MDCs during the debate to amend Rule 128. It said the backing across party lines demonstrated unity within the Council in protecting tribal rights.
According to the party, the Governor’s assent affirms the will of the people and reinforces constitutional safeguards, adding that the decision would play a key role in preserving the rights and dignity of the Achik people.
The BJP also expressed hope that the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) would take up the matter with similar urgency to extend such protections to the Khasi people.
