SAHILCA clarifies on CSO recognition issue
Source: Chronicle News Service
Kangpokpi, May 14 2022:
The Sadar Hills Chiefs' Association (SAHILCA) has made a clarification over non-inclusion of non-Kuki civil bodies under its fold following objections from various quarters.
SAHILCA president Haokholen Kipgen expressed surprise over objection raised by non-Kuki communities for not mentioning them under its fold as SAHILCA can only accommodate those civil bodies which adhere to Kuki customary laws.
He continued that SAHILCA is always willing to include any organisations under its folds that are willing to abide and adhere to the Kuki customary laws.
He also clarified that a community-based organisation does not need the approval of other communities for its existence and therefore other non-Kuki civil bodies under Sadar Hills should not misunderstand the logic behind its non-inclusion by SAHILCA.
In connection with its resolution related to the quarrying, forest reserve and police jurisdiction, the SAHILCA president said that the association will further discuss the matter with the civil society organisations concerned if a need arises for any rectification.
He further said that SAHILCA welcomes dialogue and in anyway does not work against the ambit of the constitution while adding that decisions are taken to protect and safeguard the rights and welfare of the people in the hill areas enshrined under Article 371-C of the Indian Constitution.