Shillong(Meghalaya), March 9 : A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the participation of non-tribals in the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections has been withdrawn. The PIL, filed by Niksrang Ch Marak, sought to bar non-tribals from contesting the upcoming GHADC elections.
The GHADC had issued a notification in February, mandating that all candidates produce a Scheduled Tribe (ST) certificate to contest the elections. This move sparked controversy, with non-tribal leaders arguing it was unconstitutional and tribal groups defending it as necessary to protect indigenous rights.
The High Court of Meghalaya had admitted the PIL and was scheduled to hear the case today. However, the petitioner has now withdrawn the case, paving the way for non-tribals to participate in the GHADC elections.
