The Sadar Hills Chiefs' Association (SAHILCA) has clarified over non-inclusion of non-Kuki civil bodies under its fold following objections from various quarters stating that it can only accommodate those civil bodies which adhere to Kuki customary laws.
SAHILCA president Haokholen Kipgen said that it is surprising as to why non-Kuki communities had objected to SAHILCA mentioning only Kuki civil bodies under its fold as it (SAHILCA) can only accommodate those civil bodies which adhere to Kuki customary laws.
He continued that SAHILCA is always willing to include any organisations under its folds that are willing to abide and adhere to the Kuki's customary laws.
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He also clarified that a community-based organisation does not need the approval of other communities for its existence and therefore, other non-Kuki civil bodies under Sadar Hills should not misunderstand the logic behind its non-inclusion by SAHILCA.
In connection with its resolution related to the quarrying, forest reserve, and police jurisdiction, the SAHILCA President said that it will further discuss the matters with the concerned civil society organisations if there needs to be any rectification.
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He further said that SAHILCA welcomes dialogue and in any way does not work against the ambit of the Constitution while adding that decisions are taken to protect and safeguard the rights and welfare of the people in the hill areas enshrined under Article 371-C of the Indian Constitution.
