Shillong, Aug 26: The state cabinet has approved a proposal to provide financial aid to the three Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) but with a key condition — the support will come only if the councils agree to carry out financial reforms.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma today said the step was taken after reviewing the weak financial position of the councils, which has affected their functioning. He stressed that the scheme is optional and each council is free to accept or reject the aid.
To move ahead, the government will form three sub-committees that will hold talks with the councils over the next 45 days. Their reports will help shape the final framework.
The CM explained that while the government respects the councils’ role in protecting traditions and institutions, financial help cannot be unconditional. Reforms such as stricter service rules and the appointment of a principal secretary from the IAS or a senior MCS officer will be required to manage funds better. The aim, he said, is to ensure money is used properly and to bring long-term financial stability.
At the same time, Sangma assured that the measures will only cover financial management. Matters related to land, customs and traditional powers will remain untouched, as those are the councils’ exclusive domain.
Citing examples, he said the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) faced a salary bill of nearly Rs 70 crore last year but earned only Rs 25 crore in revenue. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), though also facing a deficit, was in a better state due to tighter control over staff numbers. Downsizing has recently brought GHADC’s workforce to 1,300 and KHADC’s to about 1,400.
Calling the move an important step, Sangma said the government wants to offer relief to struggling councils while ensuring reforms that can strengthen them in the long run.
