HAC resolution concerns MNYO
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, October 20 2024: Manipur Naga Youth Organisation, Head Quarters (MNYO-HQ) has expressed serious concern over the recent resolutions adopted by the Hill Areas Committee (HAC) on October 14, under the leadership of chairman Dinganglung Gangmei, terming the move as unconstitutional and violation of democratic norms.

According to a statement of MNYO, the HAC's resolution was passed in response to cancellation of the caretaker chairmanships of the Autonomous District Councils (ADGs).

The cancellation was mandated by an order issued earlier by the state government.

The controversial resolution aims to establish temporary committees for each ADC, with composition of 20 members.

Of these members, 18 would be selected from a pool of former ADC members, local governance experts, and prominent intellectuals, while the remaining two would be nominated by the government.

These committees are expected to manage the responsibilities of the ADCs until the next elections are held.

MNYO strongly opposed the said resolution, contending that it violates Article 371C of the Indian Constitution, which safeguards the special provisions for the administration of tribal areas in the state.

The organisation argued that the creation of temporary committees without adequate consultation or representation is an undemocratic practice that undermines grassroots governance.

In the statement, MNYO further expressed concern that the resolution was motivated by vested interests and could set a harmful precedent for the governance of hill areas in the state.

Although MNYO refrained from com menting on the timing of the next ADC elections, it is firmly opposed to the undemocratic approach adopted by the HAC in passing the resolution, said the statement.

It called the resolution as a direct threat to grassroots democracy in the state, while warning that if not addressed promptly, it could erode the democratic framework of the nation.

The organisation has called upon the Governor, as the custodian of Article 371C, and other state authorities to take immediate steps to reverse these measures.

MNYO further urged the Governor to intervene to protect grassroots democracy and prevent actions that may harm the democratic rights of the people of the state.

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