The just-concluded budget session of the GHADC finally saw unanimity in the MDCs’ opposition to any form of dilution of the powers of the Nokmas and their A’king in the proposed amendment of the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution of India.
The amendment will see the implementation of village councils, a move that is being seen negatively by many for fear of the powers of the Nokma being diluted.
Yesterday a motion was made by the Congress MDCs, with Cherak W Momin and Alphonsush Marak asking that the formation of village councils should not come at the expense of the authority of the Nokmas (village chieftains) and powers they yield over clan lands.
While being discussed, the Chief Executive Member, Benedict Marak, assured the house that there would be no dilution of powers of the Nokmas.
During a conversation with media persons after the session, Cherak mentioned the assurance given by the CEM while adding that the issue of amendment has been a matter of concern for each and every tribal of Garo Hills.
The proposed amendment has been a major cause of worry for most concerned residents of Garo Hills amidst the fear that the Nokmas would lose his standing if the village council superseded them.
Various NGOs yesterday held meetings with concerned citizens, Nokmas and senior leaders, among others, to discuss the matter. The NGOs have been asking for the proposal to be put on hold until the amendment was fully discussed and vetted.
They have demanded that prior to the amendment of the Sixth Schedule, the government needs to hold meetings and seek the views and opinions of people of the tribe who would be the ones affected by the change.
