BJP MDC threatens to take legal action if GHADC refuses to clarify over taxes imposed without Guv’s approval

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 15, 2025

BJP MDC from Tura Bernard N Marak has threatened to take legal action if the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) fails to clarify within ten days over the alleged imposition of taxes with without the Governor’s approval, as mandated under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. 

In a letter to Council’s Executive Member Grahambell A Sangma, Marak questioned the authority under which the department continued to levy taxes, particularly on tribals, without securing necessary constitutional sanction.

Marak alleged that the tax collection process is illegal, unlawful, and unconstitutional, given the lack of Governor’s approval.

He said the GHADC has failed to clear over 40 months of salary arrears for its employees, despite collecting revenue through unauthorized taxes.

Marak has demanded the incumbent EC to immediately clarify on the legal basis for imposing taxes without the Governor’s approval. 

He sought to know why the Executive Member should not be held legally accountable for violating constitutional provisions adding what is the justification for collecting unauthorized taxes while employees remain unpaid for an extended period.

If a satisfactory response is not provided within 10 days, Marak has threatened to pursue legal action, potentially leading to judicial intervention to ensure the GHADC operates within the constitutional framework.

“If a satisfactory response is not provided within 10 days, I will be compelled to pursue legal action to holding you accountable for these violations. The continued imposition of illegal taxes and financial mismanagement cannot go unchecked. I expect an immediate response addressing these concerns. Failure to do so will necessitate judicial intervention to ensure that GHADC operates within the constitutional framework and upholds its financial responsibilities. Kindly treat this matter with urgency,” he stated in the letter.