TURA, July 14: Several prominent groups from Garo Hills have urged GHADC authorities to follow through and look into various pending demands with regard to the reformation of the GHADC.
In a joint memorandum submitted to GHADC CEM Dhormonath Sangma on Tuesday, the local groups including the Association for Democracy and Empowerment (ADE), A’chik Holistic and Awakening Movement (AHAM), A’chik Youth Welfare Organisation (AYWO), Federation for A’chik Freedom (FAF), Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP), and Garo Students’ Union (GSU), while lauding the current EC for enacting the GHADC Service Rules and introducing an online portal for all financial transactions, felt that similar other reformative steps also needed to be taken.
The combined groups raised the issue of the Separate Electoral Roll and reiterated its importance to the indigenous people of Garo Hills.
“The fundamental objective of GHADC is to preserve our unique way of life, traditions, customs, and cultural heritage. Maintaining the sanctity of this venerable institution is therefore paramount. In this context, the demand for a separate electoral roll—comprising only tribal members—reflects the genuine aspirations of our people. We are aware that a committee has been constituted to examine this matter, and we look forward to witnessing the passage of this historic legislation at the earliest possible opportunity,” the joint memo stated.
The local groups also raised the issue of the Codification of Garo Customary Law.
“It is imperative upon your office to initiate the necessary consultations regarding the contents of the proposed Bill with all relevant stakeholders and arrive at consensual resolutions acceptable to all sections of society. Therefore, we, the consortium of civil society groups, urge your benign office to undertake the needful and facilitate the passage of the Garo Customary Law,” it said.
