Shillong, March 10 : The Hynniewtrep National Youth Front (HNYF) Central Body has strongly opposed the participation of non-tribal candidates, particularly from the Muslim community, in the upcoming Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections.
In a press release issued by the organisation, HNYF stated that the provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India grant autonomy to tribal communities in Meghalaya, empowering the Autonomous District Councils to legislate on matters related to land, forest, traditional administration, and social customs including marriage and inheritance.
The organisation emphasised that the Sixth Schedule was designed to safeguard the traditional way of life, customs, and governance systems of tribal communities in the region.
According to the HNYF, tribal customs and traditions are best understood and represented by members of the tribal communities themselves. The organisation questioned the intent of non-tribal aspirants contesting the GHADC elections and expressed concern that such moves could interfere with the rights of tribal communities to govern their own customary matters.
The HNYF also stated that it would stand with the Garo community in opposing any attempt that could affect the cultural and traditional rights of indigenous people in Meghalaya.
The organisation further appealed to the Central and State Governments to maintain strict vigilance in the plain belt areas of Garo Hills, which it described as a hotspot for illegal migration.
In its statement, the HNYF urged members of the Muslim community in Garo Hills to respect the constitutional provisions and maintain peaceful coexistence with the local communities.
