Tura, March 18 : Member of District Council (MDC) from Tura constituency, Bernard N. Marak, has proposed an amendment to the Assam and Meghalaya Autonomous Districts (Constitution of District Councils) Rules, 1951, aimed at ensuring that only indigenous Scheduled Tribe (ST) citizens are eligible to contest elections to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC).
In a formal communication addressed to the Joint Secretary of the Legislative Department, GHADC, Marak sought consideration of a proposed bill to amend Rule 8, Sub-Para (a) of the existing rules. The amendment proposes replacing the current eligibility phrase “is a citizen of India” with “is an indigenous Scheduled Tribe citizen of India.” If implemented, this would mandate that only indigenous ST individuals residing in Garo Hills can contest ADC elections.
Marak stated that the proposed amendment is necessary to safeguard tribal identity, ensure proper representation of Scheduled Tribes, and uphold the constitutional intent of the Sixth Schedule. He emphasized that such a measure would help prevent dilution of tribal rights and institutions, while also addressing concerns that have led to unrest in the region.
The proposal suggests that the amendment, once approved, would be enacted as part of the Assam and Meghalaya Autonomous Districts (Constitution of District Councils) Rules (Amendment) Act, 2026, and would come into force upon notification by the Governor of Meghalaya.
Marak has urged the authorities to acknowledge and consider the proposal at the earliest, expressing hope that it will reinforce the protection of indigenous rights in the Garo Hills region.
