TIPRA Motha chief Pradyot Manikya challenges unequal royalty distribution in ADC areas

Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma, former Chairman of Tipra Motha, has raised significant concerns regarding the distribution of royalties in Autonomous District Council (ADC) areas in Meghalaya.

In a recent statement, Debbarma questioned why the Bodhjungnagar industrial estate in Tripura, situated within the jurisdiction of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council, does not contribute royalties to the council. He highlighted disparities by contrasting this with Meghalaya, where industries like Lafarge and Star Cements reportedly contribute 60 percent of their royalties to local ADCs.

“It’s come to our knowledge that Lafarge, Star Cements, and many other industries in 6th schedule areas are paying 60 percent royalty to the councils in Meghalaya. The entire Bodhjungnagar industrial estate is in ADC areas, but not one rupee is given to us. Why?” Debbarma’s post on X questioned.

ADCs in India, established under the 6th Schedule of the Indian Constitution, aim to provide self-governance and ensure local communities benefit from natural resources and industrial activities. These councils are crucial for tribal regions, aiming to empower local governance and equitable distribution of resources.