One day political conference held
Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network

Imphal, August 18 2018: The six Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in Manipur have reiterated their demand for the implementation of the Manipur Hill Areas Autonomous District Councils Act, 1971.They also demanded that Rules 1972 with the subsequent Amendment Act of 2008 be ensured "in letter and spirit" .

The demand was made during the "one-day political conference of the 6 Autonomous District Council members, Manipur" held today at District Council Bhavan, Chingmeirong.

These demands came after the ADC members thoroughly discussed their present status and on how to acquire the rights which have "been suppressed for the last 20 years".

Chairmen from the six ADCs shared the dais during the programme.

The members of the six ADCs alleged that the rights of the tribal people have been betrayed by the Government of Manipur.

"The Government of Manipur has failed to implement the Manipur Hill Areas Autonomous District Councils Act, 1971 and Rules 1972 with the subsequent Amendment Act of 2008," further alleged the ADC members.

According to them, because of these reasons ADCs cannot properly function.

The members of the ADCs felt it is time they fight together for their rights irrespective of different political parties and communities.

One of the points adopted during the conference said that the Government enhances the salary and allowance of the members of the six ADCs.

The ADC members also demanded the pension benefits of all ex-members and council employees as per Section 27 (B) of the District Councils Act, 1971 as amended in 2008 .

The ADC members then demanded the filling up of all categories of vacant sanctioned posts under the six ADCs at the earliest.

They further demanded that "creation of all required posts in all the departments under the six ADCs shall be effected for smooth and effective functioning of administration of each District Council Government" .

The six ADCs said, "Since land is a very sensitive issue, the Manipur State Government should mandatorily obtain prior consent of the Autonomous District Councils on such matters as acquisition of land in the hill districts, according to the provisions of the relevant Act and Rule" .

They also demanded the inclusion of the Chairmen of the six ADCs in the Advisory Board of Tribal Affairs (TA) & Hills Department and also in the District Planning Committee/Board.

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