The election to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) in Meghalaya has been postponed due to ongoing violence and disturbances in West Garo Hills district. Best Book for Current Affairs & General Knowledge Preparation
Sixth Schedule of the Constitution
The Sixth Schedule (Articles 244(2) and 275(1)) of the Constitution provides autonomous administrative arrangements for tribal areas in northeastern states such as Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.
What are Autonomous District Councils (ADCs)?
Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in Meghalaya are special local self-governing institutions created under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India.
These councils protect the political, cultural, and economic rights of tribal communities and ensure self-governance in tribal areas.
Powers of Autonomous District Councils
ADCs exercise multiple powers that strengthen local governance.
They have legislative, executive, judicial, and financial powers within their respective jurisdictions.
Autonomous District Councils in Meghalaya
Meghalaya currently has three Autonomous District Councils functioning under the Sixth Schedule.
Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC)
Based in Shillong, it covers the Khasi Hills districts.
Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC)
Based in Tura, it covers the five districts of the Garo Hills region.
Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC)
Based in Jowai, it covers the Jaintia Hills districts.
Composition of ADCs
Each Autonomous District Council has a defined institutional structure.
Structure: Each council consists of 30 members, known as Members of District Council (MDCs).
Representation:
29 members are elected from territorial constituencies.
1 member is nominated by the Governor.
Tenure of Members
The tenure of MDCs is 5 years, similar to state legislatures, unless the council is dissolved earlier.
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