IMPHAL, Oct 23:  The Naga Lawyers’ Association, Manipur, has voiced strong disappointment and concern regarding the recent Resolution No. 59/2024-(HAC) dated October 14,2024 adopted by the Hill Area Committee.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Association condemned the decision, signed by Shri Dinganglung Gangmei, Chairman of the Hill Area Committee, following a Gauhati High Court ruling that invalidated the Caretaker Chairmanship system for Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in the state.

The Hill Area Committee has proposed temporary administrative arrangements for the ADCs, recommending the formation of a committee of 20 members for each ADC in the Hill Areas. This proposal includes 18 members selected from former ADC members, experts in local self-government, or other distinguished individuals, with two members as government nominees, until ADC elections can be held.

The Naga Lawyers’ Association has firmly rejected this recommendation, calling it unconstitutional and arbitrary. “The proposal, in its entirety, reveals a flagrant disregard for the established legal framework and the governing rules,” the Association stated. They also criticized the Cabinet decision made by the Government of Manipur on June 13, 2024, which serves as the foundation for this recommendation, highlighting a lack of fairness, transparency, and accountability.

The Association questioned the legal grounds on which the Hill Area Committee bases its recommendation to appoint the entire ADC of the Hill Areas through nomination, thereby bypassing the democratic electoral process. They noted, “It is equally unfortunate that the Naga Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) have chosen to support this ill-conceived Cabinet Decision and the subsequent HAC Resolution, thereby recklessly violating the constitutional provisions and the relevant rules of governance.”

The passage of this Resolution without the participation of members from other communities in the Committee further underscores the disregard for democratic representation and inclusivity. The Naga Lawyers Association has called on the Honorable Governor of Manipur to take action and use special powers to nullify this unconstitutional Resolution.

While the Association advocates for the timely conduct of ADC elections, they strongly oppose any governing body appointments that undermine democratic processes and established legal standards, warning that such actions would damage public trust in governance integrity.