The Government of India, through the Ministry of Home Affairs, is preparing to introduce amendments to the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution by December 2024. This was confirmed by Pyniaid Sing Syiem, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), following a meeting between leaders of the Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) of the North East and A.K. Mishra, Adviser to the Home Ministry for North East affairs.
Pyniaid, who is also the Convener of the North East Autonomous District and Territorial Councils, stated that this is significant news for the District Councils in the region, as the Indian government is taking the matter seriously. He further assured that the KHADC has clearly communicated to the government that the unique customs, traditions, and governance structures of the indigenous people must be preserved. A.K. Mishra reportedly conveyed that the government intends to safeguard the special status of tribal communities in the North East.
Mishra, a key figure in peace negotiations between the Indian government and militant groups, is expected to meet with various District Councils in the region within the week.
