State government’s decision to pay salaries of ADC staff
Shillong, Aug 27: The Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) has expressed concerns over the state government’s decision to pay salaries of employees in the three autonomous district councils as it may affect the autonomous power of the councils, potentially leading to state control over employment and promotion procedures.
“It is very important to mention that District Councils are autonomous bodies under the constitution of India and the State Government cannot interfere with the function of the council. Therefore, the decision of the government to pay salary of the staff of council (if directly) will affect the autonomous power of the councils, if not now may be in the future,” KHNAM working president Thomas Passah warned in a statement issued on Tuesday.
“Moreover, if the State government controls the payment of salary of staff, it would mean that it will also take control of the employment/promotion procedures of the council. For instance, the KHADC have rules intended to define the conditions of service under the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council and regulate matters relating to recruitment, promotion, official duties, discipline and to conditions under which pay, leave, pension and allowances. Now, what will happen to these rules,” he stated.
Passah suggests that the councils should pay salaries themselves, with the state government providing financial assistance.
“How will the State government pay salaries of all the three autonomous district councils in the Khasi, Jaiñtia and Garo Hills? will the State Government include all the staff of the council into the pay roll of the State Government? Or the State Government will only hand over the salary amount to the District Council? Where will this money come from? Will the State Government deduct grants of the council at the DCA level and release the remaining or will the salary of council staff be included in the State Budget?” he asked.
The KHNAM leader also pointed out that each council has unique issues and problems, requiring tailored solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
He emphasized the need for proper discussion with stakeholders, including the councils, to ensure that the autonomous structure of the councils is not jeopardized.
