A significant national-level discussion forum commenced in Diphu, Assam, in recognition of the 75th anniversary of the inclusion of the Sixth Schedule in the Indian Constitution. This provision has been pivotal in establishing Autonomous councils for tribal areas, allowing for self-governance and preservation of indigenous rights. Currently, Assam is home to three councils under this framework: Karbi Anglong, Dimasa, and the Bodoland Territorial Council. Established in 1952, these councils have long sought greater autonomy, arguing that the powers granted under the Sixth Schedule are inadequate for their needs.
The recent push for self-determination echoes the central government’s decision in 2019 to grant Union Territory status to Ladakh, prompting leaders like Sonam Wangchuk to advocate for a Sixth Schedule council for the region.
The two-day forum, which kicked off today in Arboretum cum Craft Centre, Diphu, is facilitated by Shivashish Biswas from Assam University and Professor Bhola Dhanraj from North Eastern Hill University (NEHU). The central focus of the discussions is financial assistance for the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council. Prominent figures in attendance include environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk, Mahendra P. Lama, a professor at Sikkim University, and Samir Kumar Das, a political science professor at the University of Kolkata.
During the inaugural session, which was chaired by Surya Rongphar, an executive member of the council’s art and culture division, Wangchuk expressed a strong desire to understand the intricacies of the Sixth Schedule. He emphasized that safeguarding the natural environment, tribal life, and traditional practices of Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao is crucial for securing rights under this constitutional provision. Wangchuk voiced hope that the upcoming 125th amendment to the Indian Constitution will address existing gaps in autonomy and support for the regions.
Wangchuk highlighted the importance of the Sixth Schedule in the 21st century, asserting that it could bolster protections for indigenous peoples, who make up 99% of Ladakh’s population. He urged that while businesses may prioritize profit, the preservation of culture and the environment must remain a priority for indigenous communities.
However, Wangchuk’s recent visit to Haflong raised concerns. While he aimed to study the operations of the Dima Hasao Autonomous Council, he appeared unaware of the council’s current struggle against the Adani Group over the acquisition of 9,000 bighas of land in Umrangso, which threatens to displace local indigenous populations. Similarly, in Karbi Anglong, dense forests—once a source of pride—now exist only in documentation.
During the forum, Samir Kumar Das urged participants to carefully navigate the balance between customary laws and modern regulations. Drawing parallels from a Washington Post article, he referenced the Amish community in Pennsylvania, which has faced governmental intervention due to their refusal to adopt modern healthcare practices. He cautioned that while tradition is essential, it must align with contemporary realities.
Professor Mahendra P. Lama pointed out that many councils often claim a lack of funding from central or state governments. However, he noted that the councils frequently fail to submit necessary projects to access these funds. Meanwhile, Professor Bhola Dhanraj stressed the need for timely disbursement of funds by the state government to enable effective administration of the councils.
The absence of Chief Executive Member Tuliram Ronghang at the inaugural ceremony was noted, as he attended another event in Dongkamkam. Nonetheless, Shivashish Biswas welcomed the attendees, affirming that while Ronghang was not physically present, his spirit resonated with those gathered in Karbi Anglong.
As the discussions unfold over the next two days, the hope remains that the 125th amendment to the Indian Constitution will pave the way for greater autonomy and support for these autonomous councils, ensuring the preservation of culture, environment, and indigenous rights in Assam and beyond.
