Tura, Nov 27, 2024: A·chik Conscious Holistically Integrated Krima (ACHIK) Council sent a strong message to Jual Oram Minister of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, regarding the demand of Meghalaya Indigenous Minority Tribals Forum (MIMTF) for the creation of Separate ‘Regional Councils’ within the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC).
The ACHIK strongly opposed the creation of separate Regional Councils from the GHADC and very essence of the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, under which GHADC operates, is to uphold the unity, integrity and collective identity of Tribal Communities with their respective Autonomous Regions. The creation of Regional Councils within the GHADC would fragment the cohesive representation of the A·chik people, dilute the fundamental purpose of the Sixth Schedule and undermine the authority and integrity of GHADC as a unified institution serving the A·chik people and all communities residing in Garo Hills, said Kebil A.Sangma President of ACHIK Council.
The points to be noted the ACHIK opposing the Key Reasons, that the Erosion of Collective Tribal Identity. The A·chik people and other communities under the GHADC have coexisted for decades with a shared vision for Socio-Economic Development. The establishment of separate Regional Councils, risks dividing our collective identity and fostering un-necessary factionalism among tribal groups said ACHIK.
The Weak of GHADC’s Governance, fragmenting the GHADC into multiple Regional Councils, would lead to bureaucratic inefficiencies, duplication of administrative efforts and a dilution of resources. This would weaken GHADC’s ability to deliver equitable development and protect tribal interests as a whole.
Threat to the Spirit of Unity, the demand for Regional Councils sets a dangerous precedent, encouraging further fragmentation within the tribal regions across Meghalaya. This runs counter to the spirit of unity and shared progress that the Sixth Schedule aims to promote.
Promotion of Division Over Dialogue, “We believe in resolving grievances through inclusive dialogue within the existing framework of GHADC. Any perceived under representation or marginalization should be addressed by strengthening GHADC, not by creating parallel or competing structures” added Sangma.
The ACHIK’s Stand Holistically, “As we are united organization representing the aspirations of the A·chik people, reaffirm our commitment to the integrity and unity of GHADC. We call upon all stakeholders, including the Meghalaya Indigenous Minority Tribals Forum, to cease such demands which may disrupt communal harmony of the region in constructive dialogue and channel, their concerns through existing mechanisms within GHADC, rather than seeking divisive measures that threaten the socio-political fabric of our region” said ACHIK leaders.
ACHIK urges the State Government and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the people of Garo Hills to reject any proposal for the creation of Regional Councils within GHADC. “Let us work together to strengthen our institutions and promote inclusive development for all communities within the Garo Hills. United we stand, divided we fall. Let us remain committed to the collective progress and dignity of the A·chik people and the Garo Hills” said ACHIK.
