OUR CORRESPONDENT
HAFLONG: A fresh and fervent appeal has been submitted to Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma through the office of the District Commissioner, Haflong, on Monday urging immediate bifurcation of the erstwhile North Cachar Hills District.
The representation, backed by the Indigenous People’s Forum (IPF), calls for the creation of a separate Autonomous District and Council citing constitutional provisions and long-standing grievances. The demand stems from the controversial renaming of the district to Dima Hasao on March 30, 2010, a move that, according to the petitioners, erased the identities of several indigenous communities and imposed a communal label. For over fifteen years, tribal groups have voiced their concerns, alleging marginalization and systemic suppression under the current administrative setup.
The memorandum highlighted the psychological and cultural alienation felt by hill tribes, economic and political deterioration due to delayed administrative reforms and constitutional feasibility for bifurcation under Articles 244 (2) and 275 (1) of the Sixth Schedule.
The representation emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating that continued delay in addressing the demand risked further erosion of tribal rights and cultural heritage. The petitioners argued that bifurcation would restore lost identities and ensure equitable governance.
It also recalled CM Sarma’s assurance during his visit to Haflong Circuit House on October 28, 2023, where he reportedly expressed willingness to consider the bifurcation demand before the upcoming Assam Assembly elections.
The appeal invokes specific clauses of the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which empower the state to create autonomous councils for tribal areas. The IPF’s proposed map outlines a clear administrative division aimed at safeguarding tribal customs, practices, and governance.
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