Tura, March 23: Thousands of people gathered outside the office of the National People’s Party (NPP) today to witness what has been hailed as a landmark and historic decision by the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) to amend its rules, making a Scheduled Tribe (ST) certificate mandatory for contesting Council elections.
The issue had remained unresolved for over 74 years, with no previous Executive Committee taking steps to amend the existing provisions.
Recently, the Chief Minister of Meghalaya and National President of NPP, Conrad K. Sangma, announced the postponement of the elections and assured that the matter would be resolved.
Within 10 days of this announcement, the GHADC passed the amendment, which will now be sent to the Governor for assent.
Addressing the gathering, NPP chief Conrad K. Sangma termed the decision a historic victory for the A’chik community. He stated that the GHADC exists to safeguard tribal autonomy, and the amendment would ensure that the Council is governed and administered by its own people.
He expressed his gratitude to party leaders, workers, and supporters for their unity and collective efforts in advancing the interests of the Garo community.
He also extended his appreciation to the present CEM, Dhormonath Ch. Sangma, and all Members of District Council (MDCs) for standing together in passing the amendment.
Appealing for peace and harmony, he urged all sections of society to refrain from any form of violence and to work collectively in the interest of the State and its people. He reiterated that the welfare and interests of the people remain the foremost priority of the NPP.
He further informed that the Council will also take necessary steps to address the long-standing demand for a separate electoral roll for the GHADC.
Cabinet Ministers Marcuise Marak and Timothy D. Shira, Speaker Thomas A. Sangma, along with party MLAs, were present at the NPP office to mark the occasion and celebrate what was described as a victory of the people.
