Committee created by Northeast ADCs to drive sixth schedule revisions

The ten Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) from the Northeast have united to press the central government for swift action on amending the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The decision came during a meeting held at Tripura Castle, Shillong, led by Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) chief, Pyniaid Sing Syiem. In a media briefing, Syiem stated that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has committed to addressing the ADCs’ concerns by August 25. The newly formed committee, which Syiem will chair, aims to ensure a unified approach from all ten ADCs. The committee will include TIPRA Motha leader Pradyot Manikya Deb Barma and Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) member Elwin Teron as advisers.

Syiem noted that Shah promised to finalize the ADCs’ demands before presenting the amendment bill in Parliament, expected to occur in the upcoming October or November session. The meeting also highlighted the Bodoland Territorial Council’s decision to allocate land for ADC guest houses and offices. Additionally, the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council will establish an English medium school in North Tripura, named after Khasi freedom fighter U Tirot Sing Syiem.

Deb Barma emphasized the need for collective action, stating that unified voices from the Northeast are crucial for achieving their goals. He criticized past coordination issues and urged the government to honor its commitments. The ADCs plan to form a structured committee to manage negotiations, potential protests, and memorandums to ensure their issues are addressed effectively.