SHILLONG, DEC 16: NPP leader and cabinet minister Timothy D Shira has defended the practice of allowing non-tribals to vote and contest elections to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), saying it has been continuing since the inception of the council.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Shira said, “This time also, I think non-tribals will be allowed because it has been continuing since time immemorial and since the inception of the GHADC. The spirit of brotherhood and sharing prevailed among our leaders who struggled together for independence, and that’s why non-tribals are allowed to participate in the GHADC elections.”

Shira emphasized that the GHADC was created for the tribals, but the leaders of the time wanted to share the spirit of brotherhood with non-tribals residing in Garo Hills.

“Our Garo leaders wanted to share equally with non-tribals who are residing in the Garo Hills. That’s why, on a minority basis, even Nepalis are nominated,” he said.

However, Shira acknowledged that in the present context, non-tribals may not have the right to vote, as the GHADC is meant for tribals only.

“Now, I am not saying that non-tribals should be given the right to vote, but I also feel that since it is an autonomous district council given for the tribals only, tribals should have the right and non-tribals have no say on it,” he added.

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