BJP Govt to boost Autonomous Councils in Northeast

Guwahati, January 24, 2019:

In a move that is being largely seen as a ploy to secure the tribal vote in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Union Cabinet decided on Wednesday to allot more funds and power to the ten Autonomous Councils in Northeast India.

A constitutional amendment meant to increase the powers of the autonomous councils in the Sixth Schedule areas of the Northeast has been approved by the Cabinet and the Financial Commission will be mandated to recommend devolution of financial resources to them.

Dima Hasao Autonomous Territorial Council and Karbi Anglong Autonomous Territorial Council will also be boosted by the transfer of thirty more subjects, including departments of Public Works, Forests, Public Health Engineering, Health and Family Welfare, etc.

This move is to substantially enhance the funds available to these government bodies to undertake developmental activities in the areas.

A Bill in this regard is expected to be introduced in the upcoming session of Parliament. It remains to be seen what effect this move will have in the calming of the wave of dissent that has spread throughout the region as voices continue to rise against the proposed Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2016.