Imphal, October 22 2010: Demanding devolution of due powers to the Autonomous District Councils under the Manipur (Hill Areas) District Council Act 1971 (Third Amendment 2008), the ADC Members have threatened that they may be compelled to join the United Naga Council's campaign for a separate administrative unit in the hill areas.

Devolution of power to ADCs with regard to 26 departments was given consent in a gazette notification issued in October 2008.The Manipur Legislative Assembly Hill Areas Committee has also recommended on October 14 this year to devolve due powers to ADCs under the District Council Act 1971 (Third Amendment 2008) .

Speaking to some media persons today, one ADC Chairman recalled that the Government held ADC elections against the stiff opposition offered by UNC and other Naga civil organisations with the promise that devolution of power would be effected in accordance to the Principle Act.

But the failure of the Government to devolve powers fully as contained in the Principle Act and the undue delay in devolution of power has caused widespread dissent among the people, the Chairman said on condition of anonymity.

There is a strong possibility that ADC Members may resolve to support the UNC's campaign for an alternative administrative unit in hill districts because of the Government's failure to devolve due powers to ADCs.

In case the UNC succeeds in achieving their demand, SPF Government should be held responsible for the same, he cautioned.

Rebel group NSCN-IM not only opposed the ADC elections but they are also threatening to kill the ADC Members if they do not resign.

ADC Members highlighted underdevelopment of the hill areas to Union Home Secretary GK Pillai during his recent visit to the State.

In response, the Home Secretary assured all possible assistance after putting up the basic development problems to the Planning Commission, the ADC Chairman claimed.

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