
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released a comprehensive ten-point manifesto for the upcoming Khasi and Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Councils (ADC) elections, slated for February 21.
The party outlined a series of promises aimed at empowering traditional leaders, providing financial assistance to vulnerable communities, and ensuring the regulation of mining activities within six months if elected to power.
BJP state president Rikman G. Momin, addressing the media, highlighted key proposals including the provision of a monthly honorarium for traditional heads like Syiem, Doloi, Sardar, and Rangbah Shnong. The party also promised financial assistance of Rs 2,000 per month to local domestic workers, taxi drivers, widows, single mothers, and laborers, with support provided through the dorbar Shnongs and the central government.
Momin emphasized the need to address the decline in revenue from illegal mining, stating, “BJP will ensure that mining is regulated and implemented within 6 months as per the Supreme Court order, to ensure financial stability for all district councils.”
A major part of the manifesto focuses on promoting local culture and tourism. The BJP aims to use the “vocal for local” initiative to boost the state’s craft and culture, while also strengthening traditional healing practices with the help of the AYUSH Ministry. Momin also assured the establishment of a central monitoring body for central schemes, equipped with a redressal mechanism.
Further, the BJP proposed the creation of a dedicated department within the District Council for trade and business investments, targeting educated unemployed youth in rural areas. This initiative will be in collaboration with traditional leaders like the Syiem, Doloi, Sardar, and Rangbah Shnong. Momin also pledged to expedite discussions at the Ministry regarding increasing the number of elected members in the District Council to 40, with 5 nominated members, including one from the Syiem (KHADC) and Doloi (JHADC).
Momin also stated that local bodies would be tasked with the scientific disposal of solid waste within the jurisdiction of Syiemships and Dolloiships, with full support from the council.
The party also promised to introduce a transparent recruitment policy for all positions within the District Councils.
When asked about the party’s chances in the elections, Momin refrained from predicting specific seat numbers but expressed confidence in the party’s candidates. “We are confident that our candidates will win and work for the people,” he said.