Manipur’s Autonomous Hill Councils and Their Unique Features

Context:

In response to the ongoing conflict in Manipur and demands from the Kuki community, the state government has proposed granting more autonomy to the existing autonomous hill councils. 

About Autonomous District Councils (ADCs):

• ADCs are local self-government bodies established to safeguard the rights and autonomy of tribal communities in certain areas of India, mainly in the northeastern states.
• They are responsible for governing specific tribal-dominated regions, ensuring the preservation of customs, traditions, and tribal interests.

Historical Background:

• During British rule in Assam, tribal populations in the hills resisted the imposition of formal laws on their land.
• To avoid confrontations and focus on economic exploitation, the British divided the hill regions of Assam into “excluded” and “partially excluded” areas through the Government of India Act, 1935.
• These areas were exempt from federal or provincial laws unless deemed necessary by the governor for peace and development.

Incorporation in the Constitution:

• The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, inspired by recommendations made by Gopinath Bordoloi’s committee, formalised the creation of Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in six hill districts of Assam.
• ADCs have legislative, judicial, and administrative autonomy within the state, with the ability to make laws on various matters.

ADCs in the Northeast:

• There are 10 ADCs under the Sixth Schedule in the Northeast, with three each in Assam, Meghalaya, and Mizoram, and one in Tripura.
• Manipur also has six ADCs, established in 1971 under an act of Parliament.

Evolution of ADCs in Manipur:

• The hill communities in Manipur have long advocated for inclusion in the Sixth Schedule for more autonomy.
• Attempts to bring greater autonomy to Manipur’s ADCs have faced obstacles, including resistance from sections in the Valley.
• The effectiveness of Manipur’s ADCs has been questioned, with concerns about budgetary allocation and non-functionality.

Feature of Manipur’s ADCs vs Sixth Schedule ADCs:

Therefore Manipur’s Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) differ from Sixth Schedule ADCs in terms of legislative powers, financial autonomy, and decision-making authority.

Solutions for Manipur’s Autonomous District Council (ADC):

• Increased Financial Autonomy: Ensure a robust financial mechanism for Manipur’s ADCs, allowing them to generate revenue independently, access central grants, and manage their finances efficiently.
• Empowerment of Local Representatives: within ADCs by ensuring that elected representatives have regular training and capacity-building programs to enhance their effectiveness in decision-making processes and budgetary allocations.
• Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Establish effective conflict resolution mechanisms to address disputes between different communities within Manipur, ensuring that ADCs can function without undue interference or discord.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation mechanism to assess the performance and functionality of ADCs regularly, with a focus on transparency and accountability.

Implementing a combination of these measures can help improve the functionality and significance of ADCs in Manipur while fostering better harmony and development in the region.

News Source: Indian Express