SHILLONG:
The Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) has accused the state government of violating the provisions of the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution of India by proposing a six-month extension of the terms of the autonomous district councils – KHADC and JHADC.
In a statement on Monday, KHNAM working president Thomas Passah asserted that the government’s proposal not only contravenes the Sixth Schedule but also deprives people of their right to re-elect representatives at the appropriate time. Passah stated, “The Governor will have to make a decision, and we will be sending our representation to the Governor, requesting him to uphold the provision of Para 6A of the Sixth Schedule.”
He clarified that KHNAM would not object to the state government’s proposal if it aligned with the provision given in Section 6A of the Sixth Schedule. However, he claimed that the current proposal deviates from Section 6A.
Passah highlighted that Para 6A of the Sixth Schedule clearly states that an extension can be granted by the Governor during a Proclamation of Emergency or if circumstances make holding elections impracticable, for a period not exceeding one year at a time. He emphasised that, in the present scenario, there is no emergency or grounds for rendering elections impracticable.
Expressing concern over the state government’s interference in the autonomy of the councils, Passah urged the need to uphold autonomy in the councils, stating that it was time to do so.
ALSO READ: BJP demands valid reasons for extension of Khasi and Jaintia Hills Autonomous Council terms