Proposed reform aims to strengthen tribal control over land, governance in Sixth Schedule areas
Shillong: The Meghalaya government has initiated steps to introduce a Scheduled Tribe (ST)-exclusive electoral roll for elections to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), signalling a major shift in how local governance may be structured in tribal areas.
According to officials, the proposal seeks to ensure that only ST members can vote in GHADC elections. In doing so, the state aims to align the electoral framework more closely with the constitutional mandate of safeguarding tribal autonomy under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India.
The move follows sustained demands from indigenous groups in the Garo Hills, who have raised concerns over the dilution of tribal political authority under the current system. By restricting electoral participation, the government intends to reinforce community-led decision-making, particularly in matters related to land and customary governance.
Importantly, the reform could have a direct bearing on land rights and representation within the council. Officials noted that limiting both the electorate and leadership to tribal communities would help protect traditional institutions, including the Nokma system, which plays a key role in local land management.
Moreover, the initiative is seen as a response to growing anxieties over demographic changes and their impact on political representation. Authorities believe that a clearly defined ST-only roll could minimise disputes linked to land ownership and governance.
While the proposal is still in its early stages, it may set a precedent for similar measures in other autonomous councils across the state.
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