Northeast Desk, 3rd February: The Meghalaya Cabinet has taken a significant decision to extend the terms of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) and the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) by an additional six months. The current terms were slated to conclude on March 5, 2024, and this extension aims to ensure the seamless operation of both councils.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Sangma announced the decision via social media, stating, “Cabinet today approved the proposal to extend the present terms of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) and the Jaiñtia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) for a period of 6 months. Since the terms of both the Councils will expire on 5th March 2024, the extension will be effective from that date.”
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, responsible for District Council Affairs, explained that the extension was deemed necessary due to the ongoing work of Delimitation Committees. These committees, established by the Governor last year, are engaged in redrawing constituency boundaries to ensure fair representation. The committees have requested additional time to complete their prescribed duties.
The decision aligns with the provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, designed to administer tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram, safeguarding the rights and interests of the tribal population. In Meghalaya, there are three Autonomous District Councils, including the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council, playing a crucial role in legislating on matters concerning tribal rights, customs, and interests.
The Meghalaya government’s move to extend the council terms has been officially recommended to the Governor for approval. The subsequent issuance of necessary orders will also delay the election process for these councils until the completion of the delimitation exercise and the submission of a report by the autonomous district councils.
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