IPF, Apex Bodies Demand Restoration of ‘N.C. Hills Autonomous Council’ Name

Hills Live News,
Haflong, Sept 3: The Indigenous Peoples’ Forum (IPF) and apex bodies of indigenous communities in Dima Hasao have strongly objected to the use of “Dima Hasao Autonomous Council” in place of the constitutionally prescribed name, “North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council.”

In a press meet held on Thursday, the IPF claimed that the name of the Council cannot be altered through a Council notification, resolution or administrative order, as it is governed by constitutional provisions.

The organisation said the matter had earlier been brought to the notice of Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, who, according to the IPF, had stated that the name of the Council had not been changed and that the rightful nomenclature remained “N.C. Hills Autonomous Council.”

However, the IPF expressed disappointment over an order issued by the Principal Secretary of the Council on August 31, 2026, directing all heads of departments to use “Dima Hasao Autonomous Council” as the name of the Council.

The Forum also questioned the timing and manner in which the order was issued, alleging that vested political interests could be attempting to create unnecessary misunderstanding and division among indigenous communities for political benefit.

The IPF said genuine issues relating to governance and accountability should not be diverted by a controversy over nomenclature. It appealed for maintaining peace, unity and harmony among the indigenous communities of the district.

The IPF and apex bodies have demanded the immediate withdrawal of the August 31 order and restoration of the constitutionally prescribed nomenclature.

The organisation has given the authorities 14 days to withdraw the direction and restore the “rightful nomenclature”. Failing this, it warned that it would be compelled to organise an indefinite bandh, including disruption of railways and highways.