GUWAHATI: The Sixth Schedule Protection Committee (SSPC) took part in an important consultation meeting in Dispur, organized by the Speaker of the Assam Legislative Assembly.
The meeting aimed to raise awareness among MLAs about the issues faced by people living in the Sixth Schedule areas of Assam, with the goal of holding discussions in the upcoming Assam Legislative Assembly session in Kokrajhar.
SSPC emphasized the need for sustainable development in regions like Dima Hasao and Karbi Anglong, calling these areas as the “lungs” of Assam. The committee argued for green development projects that benefit local communities, instead of extractive industries that harm the environment and provide little economic gain.
The committee also highlighted political and administrative challenges, particularly the impact of Panchayati Raj programmes like GPDP and CDC, which they believe weaken the powers of Autonomous Councils.
SSPC called for strengthening the roles of Members of Autonomous Councils (MACs), including providing them with local development funds and administrative authority.
Additionally, SSPC urged the government to redraft the 125th Constitution Amendment Bill to include recommendations from local councils and stakeholders. They also called for stronger protection of land laws and more action against illegal activities like rat-hole mining and timber smuggling.
The Speaker and other lawmakers responded positively to SSPC’s concerns, promising to examine the issues closely in the upcoming Assembly session. However, the absence of MACs at the meeting was noted as a key concern.
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