Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma proposed in the Assembly on Thursday that the state government should “weaponize” advance funding to assist the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) in paying staff salaries. This strategy aims to pressure the Government of India to expedite the long-delayed Constitution (125th Amendment) Bill, 2019, which seeks to modify the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. By moving a resolution that urges the Centre to amend Article 280 for financial support to district councils, Sangma emphasized that releasing advance funds could create a pressing sense of urgency for the Indian government.
Sangma stressed, “We must convey to the Government of India that we are compelled by the circumstances facing the Autonomous District Councils (ADCs). The state cannot remain a passive observer, as the entire responsibility lies with the Government of India.” He noted that, due to delays from the Centre, the state government has no option but to provide advance funding, which should subsequently be reimbursed by the Indian government. He mentioned that the Parliamentary Standing Committee took two years to consult with states regarding the proposed amendment, ultimately submitting its report in 2021.
“There is an urgent need to impress upon the Government of India, considering the GHADC’s staff have not received their salaries for 43 months,” he explained. Sangma expressed concern for affected villagers who have witnessed agitated GHADC employees; some were moved to tears. He called for utilizing available commitments from the Government of India to ensure the prompt passage of the amendment bill.
He recalled that the proposed amendment aims to fulfill the objectives of the Text Settlement Agreement signed on September 24, 2014, which involved the Centre, state government, and three disbanded groups of the ANVC. Sangma asserted the seriousness of not taking Parliament for granted, noting that the amendment also impacts other ADCs, complicating the discussion and contributing to delays.
He articulated that it is essential for the state to approach the Centre specifically regarding issues relevant to Meghalaya, stating, “Six years is too long a time.” Sangma urged the government to give a firm assurance regarding its commitment to addressing the crisis faced by the ADCs without the amendment. He suggested providing advances to ADCs for salary payments, similar to aid previously extended to retired Members of the District Council (MDCs).
Sangma noted that the Centre had increased the state’s tax share from 32% to 42% following Finance Commission recommendations, leading to an influx of funds. “Therefore, a certain amount should not be difficult to arrange as advance funding for both the GHADC and JHADC,” he added.
In response, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong stated that the 125th Amendment Bill, 2019, aims to enhance the state’s consolidated fund and support district councils’ resources. He clarified that “district council” is specifically mentioned in line with provisions for municipal and village councils in tribal areas, as highlighted in Article 244.
Tynsong assured that the state government is diligently pursuing the bill’s passage with the Centre, noting that Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on multiple occasions. He reported that the Parliamentary Standing Committee has visited various states and submitted its findings, which the Ministry of Home Affairs is currently reviewing.
Tynsong committed that the government would persist in its efforts to advance the bill, asserting that its passage would alleviate challenges faced by the councils. He acknowledged the salary crises impacting both the GHADC and JHADC and reiterated that the government does not have any political motivation to intervene on their behalf. A committee has been formed at the state level, along with three district councils, including the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, to examine the matter and report within 45 days.
Ultimately, the Leader of Opposition withdrew his resolution after being satisfied with Tynsong’s assurances regarding the government’s commitment to addressing the issues at hand.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/09/12/mukuls-call-to-weaponise-funds-to-expedite-125th-amendment-passage/
Category: MEGHALAYA
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Publish Date: 2025-09-12 02:48:00
