BJP MDC Bernard N Marak Criticizes Delays in Implementation of Agreed Text for Settlement

Marak also stressed the urgency of passing the 125th Amendment to the Sixth Schedule, which has been delayed.

Tura BJP MDC Bernard N Marak has raised concerns over the prolonged delay in implementing the Agreed Text for Settlement (ATS), which was signed between the Centre, State, and ANVC groups during the tenure of former Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

During a meeting in Delhi, Marak highlighted that while the BJP government at the Centre signed the agreement within six months of coming to power, the previous Congress-led government in Meghalaya intentionally delayed its implementation for over a decade.

According to Marak, the current National People’s Party (NPP) government in Meghalaya is following the same pattern of delay, failing to act on the agreement’s provisions. He accused both the Congress and NPP of being “anti-tribal” and “anti-Hill people,” stating that the ATS was designed to strengthen the Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) through amendments to the Sixth Schedule.

BJP, he asserted, is committed to empowering Traditional Institutions, Local Self-Governance, Rural and Urban Local Bodies, and ensuring direct funding from the Centre. However, leaders from Congress and NPP have allegedly sabotaged the agreement, diverting central funds meant for ADCs to state departments.

Marak pointed out that despite the agreement being signed in 2014, ADCs have not received the promised 13 departments, financial support, or even a single official meeting in the last five years. He claimed that while ADCs began receiving special packages after the agreement, the ruling party misused funds through contractors, leading to incomplete and duplicated projects. As a result, ADCs have struggled to submit Utilisation Certificates due to project irregularities.

He further stated that a detailed list of incomplete projects, fund misappropriation, and deliberate delays in implementation would soon be presented to central leaders. Marak also stressed the urgency of passing the 125th Amendment to the Sixth Schedule, which has been delayed due to the state government’s reluctance.

BJP, he reaffirmed, remains committed to uplifting ADCs by enforcing the Agreed Text for Settlement, strengthening local bodies, and promoting self-governance.

Also Read: Home Minister Amit Shah Hands Over IOA Flag to Meghalaya CM for 39th National Games in 2027

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