Shillong, Aug 7: Proceedings in the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) took an ugly turn on Friday when MDCs Nikman Ch. Marak and Alphonsus R. Marak were involved in a physical altercation following a heated exchange over a proposed amendment to the Council’s rules.
The amendment seeks to allow only Scheduled Tribe (ST) voters to participate in GHADC elections. It was expected to be taken up on Friday but was postponed until Monday, drawing strong objections from some members.
MDC Nikman Ch. Marak reportedly questioned the decision to defer the matter, insisting that the amendment should be passed immediately rather than waiting until Monday. The disagreement escalated into a heated argument between members.
The session also witnessed a sharp debate over alleged irregularities by the previous Executive Committee (EC), including the former Chief Executive Member (CEM) and Deputy Chief Executive Member (Deputy CEM). According to reports, tensions continued to rise during the proceedings and eventually spilled over into a physical confrontation between the two MDCs after the House was adjourned.
Reacting to the incident, MDC Alphonsus R. Marak said the matter should have been discussed peacefully. However, he alleged that the opposition raised objections with different motives, possibly political, and claimed that some members were opposing the issue simply because it was being pursued by the present Executive Committee.
Alphonsus further stated that the issue had remained unresolved for nearly 74 years and urged all members, regardless of their political affiliation or constituency, to come together to settle the matter without further delay. He also noted that the Chairman had already announced that the proposed amendment would be taken up for discussion and consideration when the House reconvenes on Monday.
The House is now expected to debate the amendment on Monday, amid heightened political tensions following today’s confrontation.
 took an ugly turn on Friday when MDCs Nikman Ch. Marak and Alphonsus R. Marak were involved in a physical altercation following a heated exchange over a proposed amendment to the Council’s rules.){kind=link}