NLAM urges Governor to intervene
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, October 23 2024: Naga Lawyers' Association, Manipur (NLAM) has strongly condemned the recent resolution adopted by the Hill Areas Committee (HAC) recommending constitution of an ad hoc committee pending conduct of the ADC elections.

In a statement on Tuesday, NLAM denounced the HAC recommendation to the state government for temporary administrative arrangements for the ADCs, proposing establishment of a Committee composed of 20 members for each ADC in the hill areas, with 18 to be former ADC members and two government nominees of the respective districts.

Terming it as "unconstitutional and arbitrary", NLAM said that the proposal reveals a flagrant disregard for the established legal framework and the governing rules.

The state cabinet's decision on June 13 this year, is also equally deficient in fairness, transparency and accountability.

It also questioned on what legal grounds or provisions the recommendations were based, while criticising the Naga MLAs who extended support to the ill-conceived cabinet decision and recommendation in the absence of members from other communities of HAC.

As such, NLAM urgently called upon the Governor to intervene in the matter and the unconstitutional resolution in the interest of justice, fairness and adherence to the rule of the law.

Declaring its support for timely conduct of the ADC elections, the Association categorically stated that it stands opposed to any selection or appointment of a governing body that undermines the democratic process and established legal provisions.

"Such actions would constitute a grave injustice and erode public confidence in the integrity of government," it cautioned.

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