The A’chik Holistic Awakening Movement (AHAM) through a memo to the Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma, has urged him to reconsider the recommendations to the central government over the proposed amendment to the Sixth Schedule.
Uneasiness has been growing in Garo Hills over the recommendations made on formation of village councils as there is apprehension that these councils would undermine the powers of the Nokmas (village headman).
The memorandum that was submitted today appreciated the government for rejecting the proposed inclusion of the ‘unrepresented tribes’ in the Sixth Schedule. However, it felt that the proposal for an elected body such as the village council will dilute the power and functions of the Nokma.
“The amendment seeks to supersede the institution of Nokma as a custodian for community assets. This has been in existence for generations,” felt AHAM vice-president, Georgeprince Ch Momin.
According to AHAM, the framers of the constitution were well aware of the ill treatment towards the lower classes by the dominant societies, which was why the Sixth Schedule was given to the tribals of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram to safeguard their identities, culture, rights etc as well as to establish autonomous bodies for themselves.
“There is no problem on the issue of development and policies which look at direct funding from the centre to the GHADC. However, diluting the power and function of the Nokma is our biggest concern,” he added.
