Governor’s Rule Imposed in Chakma Tribal Council

Governor’s Rule Imposed in Chakma Tribal Council

Why in the News?

The Governor of Mizoram, K. Hari Babu, imposed Governor’s Rule in Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) citing political instability. This move was against the advice of the state cabinet led by the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government.

Governor's Rule Imposed in Chakma Tribal Council

Background and Constitutional Framework:

  • The Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC), formed in 1972, operates under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, meant to provide self-governance to tribal areas.
  • The CADC governs the Chakma tribal region in Mizoram’s Lawngtlai district; Chakmas are the second-largest ethnic group in the state.
  • The Governor’s decision came amid political turmoil and was stated to be necessary due to “constant instability.”

Political Crisis and Defections

  • Since 2023, CADC witnessed two mass defections and two no-confidence motions.
  • The first-ever BJP-led executive was toppled in June 2024 after 12 members defected to Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), giving it 16 of 20 MDCs.
  • ZPM staked claim to form the executive committee, but the Governor rejected this and imposed Governor’s Rule for six months.
  • Mizoram Home Minister K. Sapdanga accused the Governor of violating democratic norms and acting against the Council of Ministers’ advice.

Special Administration Provisions for Tribal Areas in North-Eastern States :
● Article 244 (Part X) provides for a special administrative system for Scheduled Areas (SAs) and Tribal Areas (TAs).
● The 6th Schedule governs tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram (AMTM).
● It allows formation of Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) with legislative, judicial, and executive powers.
● Rationale: To safeguard tribal identity, culture, customs, and governance, ensuring limited assimilation into mainstream.
● Article 244(2) & 275(1): Provide constitutional and financial support for tribal administration.
● Article 244A allows creation of an autonomous state with its own legislature and ministry within Assam.