Bernard flags lapses in Gram Sabha campaign

Shillong, Oct 4: Tura MDC Bernard N Marak has written to Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong raising concerns over the non-conduct of the People’s Plan Campaign (PPC) in Garo Hills and alleged violations of commitments under the Tripartite Agreement between rebel groups and the state and central governments.

In his letter, Marak stated that the PPC, mandated by the central government, was scheduled for October 2 through Gram Sabhas in Garo Hills. The campaign is designed to ensure public participation in developmental planning by recording citizens’ opinions and uploading proposals on the PPC portal.

However, Marak noted that no Gram Sabha was convened, no information was shared with elected members, and no proceedings were uploaded, calling it a “deliberate denial of people’s participation” and a breach of central directives.

He urged immediate intervention to direct GHADC and block authorities to conduct the PPC transparently and involve the public fully.

Marak also highlighted that the Tripartite Agreement, which mandates bi-monthly review meetings, has not been adhered to since the last meeting on September 26, 2025. He described this as a “gross violation of commitments” and requested that the overdue meeting be convened at Tura without delay to restore confidence among stakeholders.

Copies of the letter have been forwarded to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, senior officials in the Ministry of Home Affairs and Panchayati Raj.

Marak warned that failure to act promptly could compel stakeholders to seek legal remedies for violations of statutory commitments and agreements.