DIPHU — The District Council Court (DCC) of
Karbi Anglong was inaugurated on Monday, marking a significant step in
implementing paragraph 4 of the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution of India and
the Mikir Hills Autonomous District Administration of Justice Rule, 1954.
The court, which will handle civil cases involving tribal
parties under the jurisdiction of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC),
was inaugurated by KAAC Chief Executive Member (CEM) Tuliram Ronghang in the
presence of KAAC Chairman Raju Tisso, Member of Parliament Amarsing Tisso,
Executive Members (EMs), Members of Autonomous Council (MACs), and Karbi
traditional king, Longsing Ronghang.
CEM Tuliram Ronghang highlighted that the construction of
the DCC building began in 2005 and, after nearly two decades, has finally been
completed. He credited the efforts of former EM Elwin Teron and former MLA Dr.
Dharamsing Teron for their contributions to the court’s establishment.
The DCC will address civil matters such as adultery, theft,
marriage disputes, land, and property cases, he said.
Ronghang also announced that Assam Chief Minister Himanta
Biswa Sarma has approved the KAAC’s proposal to establish a village police
force which will soon be operational.
MP Amarsing Tisso emphasised the importance of judiciary as
one of the four pillars of democracy, alongside the legislature, executive, and
media. He noted that the DCC will allow tribal parties to resolve disputes
locally, without having to approach higher courts like the High Court or
Supreme Court.
Judge Sarthe Ronghi, who will head the DCC, explained its
structure and jurisdiction, and said that the court is empowered to handle
civil disputes such as marriage laws, land and property matters, and title
suits. It can also deal with criminal cases involving punishments of up to five
years.
For criminal cases requiring higher punishments, the DCC can
proceed if it receives approval from the Governor of Assam, he said.
The DCC is supported by subordinate courts and village
courts, forming a tiered judicial system under the Sixth Schedule.
Along with Sarthe Ronghi, the KAAC has appointed Dhonison
Lekthe as Additional Judge, and Micky Teron and Bilcham Teron as judicial
officers.
