On March 6, 2024, the people of Ladakh, led by engineer and environmental activist Sonam Wangchuk, began a 21-day protest in Leh. Wangchuk spoke to a crowd of hundreds at 3,500 meters above sea level, defining the protest as a peaceful hunger strike. Their demand was apparent: a direct plea to the central government to keep its promise to include Ladakh in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and grant it sovereignty. “Why the Sixth Schedule? “And what does it do?” In this article, we’ll explore these questions about the Sixth Schedule in depth.
What is the Sixth Schedule?
The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution is a one-of-a-kind provision that provides some autonomy to certain tribal areas in four northeastern states: Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Tripura. It establishes self-governing entities called Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in these states.
Why the Sixth Schedule?
Prior to Indian independence, tribal tribes in the northeast operated primarily under their own customary rules and practices. The Sixth Schedule, created in 1949, sought to protect autonomy while including these territories in the larger Indian framework. It acknowledged the tribal inhabitants’ distinct social and cultural identities and attempted to protect them from possible exploitation by the majority plains communities.
Key Features of the Sixth Schedule
The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution encompasses several key features to protect the interests and autonomy of tribal areas. Some of its notable features include:
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Autonomous District Councils (ADCs)
The Sixth Schedule calls for forming Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in tribal territories. These councils are given extensive legislative, executive, and financial authority to manage the regions under their jurisdiction.
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Legislative Powers
ADCs have the jurisdiction to pass legislation on various topics, including land, forestry, agriculture, and local government, within the boundaries set by the Constitution. This gives them legislative autonomy that is adapted to the indigenous people’s unique needs and culture.
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Executive Powers
ADCs have executive authority to implement laws and policies within their areas of jurisdiction. They can develop and execute development strategies, manage resources, and run local institutions to successfully meet the tribal community’s requirements.
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Financial Powers
ADCs have control over the funds allotted to them by the state government. They can collect revenue from taxes, fees, and other sources for local development initiatives, infrastructure projects, and social programs.
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Protection of Customary Laws and Practices
The Sixth Schedule protects the customary laws, traditions, and cultural practices of tribal tribes that live in the defined territories. It guarantees that the legal system recognises and accommodates these populations’ distinct socio-cultural histories.
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Reservation of Seats
The Sixth Schedule requires indigenous representatives to be given reserved seats in legislative bodies. This guarantees tribal populations receive proper political representation and participate in local and regional decision-making.
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Special Provisions for Administration
Tribal regions on the Sixth Schedule have special administrative provisions adapted to their specific requirements and challenges. certain provisions are intended to foster good governance, socioeconomic development, and inclusive growth in certain regions.
Why does Ladakh Demand a Sixth Schedule?
The people of Ladakh demanded the inclusion of the Union Territory in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. This plan would give the Ladakh and Kargil autonomous councils constitutional standing, allowing them to charge taxes and pass rules governing village administration and forest management. It would also act as a barrier to expanding industrial and mining operations in this environmentally sensitive area.
