United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL) Member of Parliament Rwngwra Narzary on Wednesday raised concerns in the Rajya Sabha over what he described as the long-standing stagnation of institutions under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, urging the Centre to expedite the passage of the Constitution (125th Amendment) Bill, 2019.
Speaking during the proceedings of the Upper House, Narzary said that autonomous councils established under the Sixth Schedule were envisioned to ensure self-governance, protect tribal identity and accelerate development in tribal-dominated areas. However, he argued that these councils have remained largely unchanged for decades, limiting their effectiveness and depriving indigenous communities of meaningful administrative and financial autonomy.
The UPPL MP pointed out that while the Sixth Schedule was framed to empower tribal regions socially, economically and culturally, the absence of necessary constitutional amendments has resulted in weak governance structures and delayed development. He stressed that the 125th Amendment Bill seeks to strengthen autonomous councils by enhancing their financial powers, administrative authority and representation, enabling them to function in line with contemporary governance needs.
Referring to Assam, Narzary said that despite progress made after the Bodo Peace Accord of 2020, several commitments related to strengthening self-rule institutions remain incomplete. He asserted that passing the pending amendment bill would help fulfil the constitutional promise made to tribal communities and reinforce peace and development in the region.
The 125th Amendment Bill, introduced in Parliament in 2019, has been pending in the Rajya Sabha for several years. Tribal leaders and organisations across the Northeast have repeatedly demanded its passage, stating that it is crucial for empowering Sixth Schedule areas and addressing long-standing developmental disparities.
Narzary urged the Union government to take immediate steps to clear the legislative logjam and ensure that autonomous councils are equipped to meet the aspirations of tribal communities in Assam and other northeastern states.
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