Leader of the opposition Dr Mukul Sangma today released the Congress Party manifesto, detailing its roadmap for what it wants to do if it wins control of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC).
The manifesto was released at an election campaign in Songsak, the Assembly constituency represented by Dr Sangma.
The manifesto highlighted the party’s pledges, which included the development of a local area development fund to all MDCs equally and equivocally. This, according to the manifesto, has become necessary as the previously all development funds were routed through the MDCs and were misused.
Secondly, the manifesto promised to abolish monopoly and other double multiple taxation system on the assertion that this has a cascading effect on the prices of goods and commodities from outside the state as well as those going out of the state.
Furthermore, the Congress stated that it would like to share revenue with the A’king Nokmas as has been provided in the Sixth Scehdule. The necessary provisions would be put in place for such an act and will go a long way in recognizing the stature and ownership of the A’king land by the Nokmas.
It further stated its intention of strengthening both the village council system and well as the administration system within GHADC with the thought of making administration corruption-free.
Through the manifesto the Congress party added that it would work on multiple strategies on revenue generation within the GHADC while also look at improving public services, making them time-bound.
Moreover the Congress promised to make payment of taxes easier by opening at least one tax collection centre in all districts while also introducing a system of online payment.
The manifesto also promised to protect the biodiversity of the region in view of the impact climate change has on systems.
“The landowners, including the clan members and traditional institutions, will be promoted for sustainable development through appropriate intervention,” it added.
Lastly, on the issue of illegal immigrants, the Congress promised to support the enforcement of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act to prevent illegal immigration into the state. Necessary awareness and logistics will be provided to Nokmas, Gaonbura, Laskers and other local leaders on the issue.
