Shillong, Sep 22: A subcommittee constituted to address the financial crisis in the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) held a meeting with the Non-Gazetted Employees Association (NGEA) in Tura today.
The meeting, chaired by West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Agarwal, discussed the government’s proposed bailout plan aimed at resolving long-standing challenges, particularly unpaid salaries.
The subcommittee included prominent figures such as Fr Januarius Sangma, Rev Frithing D Sangma, retired MCS officer Charming N Sangma and Tura Municipal Board CEO JRT Sangma.
The NGEA delegation was led by president Brithen M Sangma and Timtim N Sangma.
During the discussions, employees expressed concerns about maintaining the autonomy of the council, fearing that the bailout might undermine its independence.
Agarwal assured them that these concerns would be addressed. Overall, however, the employees broadly welcomed the bailout proposal, viewing it as a long-awaited step toward stability.
The NGEA have been on a protest against the GHADC, specifically the council’s inability to pay them their salaries. The dues owed to the employees are almost four years’ worth. The state government has offered to pay the salaries of all three district councils from November onwards but it may also insist on certain reforms to be carried out as part of the arrangement.
The primary concern raised by the NGEA was the autonomy and independence of the council, which Agarwal assured would not be compromised.
The DC noted that employees, who have suffered due to irregular payments, are seeking both stability and assurance. The NGEA will deliberate internally before responding formally to the proposal.
