GHADC session to take up Bill to bar non-tribals’ participation in council polls

Shillong, March 20:The special session of the GHADC starting from March 23, will bring amendments to the district council rules, to prevent non-tribals from taking part in  polls.

An official source said a Bill will be  introduced during the session amending Rule 8.

The move of the government is following protests over the participation of non- tribals in council elections.

“The agenda is very clear: one issue is about the amendment of the AD Rules and on that let the amendments be passed,” Deputy Chief Minister in-charge district council affairs Prestone Tynsong told reporters on Friday, adding that the exercise is not limited to Rule 128.

“We have 7, we have 8… don’t come to a conclusion. Let the amendment take place; we have to respect the decision of the House.”

He declined to detail specific changes before debate, saying: “How can I tell you now? Wait till the House adopts or passes the amendment.”

The move follows weeks of agitation demanding that only tribal electors take part in GHADC polls, a flashpoint Tynsong said the government is addressing through the council’s own legislative process.

The special session is being summoned following the state government’s decision to extend tenure of the GHADC by another six months.