The Awaken India Movement (AIM), Meghalaya has urged the three autonomous district councils to adopt a resolution to oppose mandatory enrolment and linking of Aadhaar for citizens protected under the Sixth Schedule.
During a meeting held at the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) today which was attended by CEM Shemborlang Rynjah, Chairman Strong Pillar Kharjana, community representatives, council officials, and civil society members, leaders of AIM expressed concern that the Meghalaya government has not respected the Supreme Court’s order, which states that Aadhaar is not mandatory for residents of Sixth Schedule areas.
According to AIM, the State government has violated both the Supreme Court orders and the spirit of the Constitution by forcing the introduction of Aadhaar for access to key government schemes, including the Public Distribution System (PDS) and other social welfare benefits.
“The government’s insistence on Aadhaar is not only illegal but also threatens the rights and livelihoods of tribal citizens especially for poor people,” AIM Chairman Banshai Marbaniang said.
He stated that many families have been denied rations and welfare entitlements because they do not possess an Aadhaar card.
Marbaniang said the KHADC assured the delegation that the council would take up the matter with urgency and consult with legal experts to ensure the rights of the Khasi and other tribal communities are protected.
AIM also urged the State Government to immediately cease all actions that make Aadhaar compulsory for accessing government schemes by ensuring protection of constitutional rights and safeguard the interests of the indigenous tribal communities.
