The Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) Working President, Pynshngaiñ N. Syiem, cautioned the public against being misled into believing that Article 371 offers better protection than the Sixth Schedule. He emphasized that the Sixth Schedule remains a critical tool for safeguarding tribal rights in Meghalaya.
Speaking on the matter, Syiem questioned whether Article 371 alone could adequately protect the rights of indigenous communities. He asserted that District Councils, as envisioned under the Sixth Schedule, are fundamental to protecting tribal areas and self-governance.
Syiem also referenced Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and leaders from Ladakh, who have demanded the inclusion of the Sixth Schedule to ensure exclusive ownership of their lands and rights. He argued that Meghalaya should strengthen the mechanisms it already has under the Sixth Schedule rather than shifting focus elsewhere.
Congress MLA Ronnie V. Lyngdoh supported Syiem’s views, stating that the public must not be swayed by claims suggesting Article 371 surpasses the Sixth Schedule in offering protection. Lyngdoh highlighted the historical significance of the Sixth Schedule, citing its role in protecting Tripura’s tribal communities, which might otherwise have been marginalized.
The Congress leaders urged the state to fully utilize and enhance the protections available under the Sixth Schedule for the benefit of Meghalaya’s indigenous communities.
