Shillong: As the February 21 elections for the autonomous district councils (ADCs) in Khasi and Jaintia Hills approach, the Meghalaya Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has unveiled its comprehensive ten-point manifesto, focusing on empowerment, financial stability, and sustainable development.
At a press briefing on Monday, BJP state president Rikman G. Momin highlighted the party’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions and supporting marginalised groups.
The manifesto proposes a monthly honorarium for traditional heads like Syiem, Doloi, Sardar, and Rangbah Shnong to ensure their continued role in community governance.
Additionally, the BJP aims to provide Rs 2,000 monthly financial aid to registered domestic workers, taxi drivers, widows, single mothers, and labourers through Dorbar Shnongs, in collaboration with the central government.
Addressing the challenges posed by illegal mining, Momin emphasised that the BJP would prioritise the regulation of mining activities within six months, in accordance with the Supreme Court’s directives.
This, he stated, would stabilize the financial situation of the district councils and safeguard their long-term economic interests.
The party’s manifesto also outlines a vision for promoting local culture and crafts, with a focus on sustainable tourism development.
“Vocal for Local” is the guiding principle, with efforts to promote traditional healing practices, backed by the Ministry of AYUSH.
In a move toward better governance, the BJP plans to establish a central monitoring body to oversee the implementation of central schemes and ensure effective grievance redressal.
Momin also proposed the creation of a specialised department within district councils to foster business and trade opportunities for educated youth in rural areas, in partnership with traditional leaders.
The BJP has also raised the issue of district council representation, advocating for an expansion of the council to 40 members, including five nominated ones.
Among these, the party proposes that a Syiem from the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) and a Doloi from the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) be nominated to bring greater balance to decision-making.
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Additionally, the party’s manifesto calls for scientific waste management solutions within the jurisdictions of traditional councils and the establishment of a transparent recruitment process for district council staff.
While the BJP refrained from making specific seat predictions, Momin expressed optimism, noting that the party had put forward strong candidates for both JHADC and KHADC, with 5 and 14 candidates, respectively.
“If it is God’s will, we hope for a sweeping victory,” he said, reaffirming the party’s continued support for the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government.
“As part of the coalition, we stand by the Chief Minister and his efforts,” Momin concluded.
