Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday announced that the state government will start paying the salaries of employees in the state’s three autonomous district councils (ADCs) from November to resolve their long-standing financial crisis.
Sangma said the move was decided after detailed discussions with the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council earlier in the day.
He described the decision as a “historic step” aimed at ensuring financial stability and timely salary disbursement.
“The annual salary requirement of the Garo Hills council alone exceeds Rs. 70 crore, while its revenue is less than Rs. 30 crore. Similar challenges exist in the Jaintia Hills and, to some extent, in the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council,” Sangma stated.
He emphasised that ADCs, created under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, play a crucial role in preserving tribal culture, traditions, and land-holding systems.
“Once the state assumes the salary burden, councils will have the freedom to focus on development and cultural responsibilities,” Sangma added.
A committee will be formed to work out the modalities with all three councils within 45 days to ensure a smooth transition.
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Sangma clarified that the government will not interfere in the day-to-day functioning or jurisdiction of the councils.
“Our sole intention is to bring financial stability and ensure salaries are disbursed on time so that the councils continue to function as mandated by the Constitution,” he said.
The chief minister said he had apprised Governor C H Vijayashankar of the decision and sought his guidance. “
As per his directions, the matter will be placed before the Cabinet tomorrow for final approval,” Sangma added.
