1. Meghalaya Cabinet extends the terms of Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Councils by six months.
2. KHADC and JHADC to operate without interruption beyond the scheduled expiration on March 5, 2024.
3. Decision aligns with the provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, safeguarding tribal areas in Meghalaya.
Shillong, Feb 03: The Meghalaya Cabinet has taken a noteworthy decision to grant a six-month extension to the terms of two vital Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in the state.
The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) and the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) were awarded an additional six months beyond their scheduled expiration on March 5, 2024, ensuring uninterrupted operations for both councils.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Sangma announced the decision on his official handle, 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 6 months. Since the terms of both the Councils will expire on 5th March 2024, the extension will be effective from that date.”
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Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, responsible for District Council Affairs, conveyed the cabinet’s endorsement, citing the necessity for an extension due to the ongoing work of the Delimitation Committees, established by the Governor last year.
These committees are engaged in redrawing constituency boundaries to ensure equitable representation and have sought additional time to fulfill their prescribed duties.
The decision to extend the terms of KHADC and JHADC adheres to the provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which empowers the administration of tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram, safeguarding the rights of the tribal population.
In Meghalaya, there are three Autonomous District Councils, including the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council, each playing a pivotal role in legislating matters concerning the protection of tribal rights, customs, and interests within their respective jurisdictions.
The Meghalaya government’s proposal to extend the council terms has been officially recommended to the Governor for approval.
Subsequently, the necessary orders will be issued. This extension effectively defers the electoral process for these councils until the completion of the delimitation exercise and the submission of a report by the autonomous district councils.
