THE SIXTH SCHEDULE AT A CROSSROADS : INSTITUTIONAL PERFORMANCE OF AUTONOMOUS COUNCILS IN ASSAM

The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution represents a unique constitutional experiment aimed at ensuring political autonomy, cultural protection and self-governance for tribal communities in India's North-Eastern region. Conceived as a safeguard against majoritarian governance, it empowers Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) with legislative, executive and judicial authority over specified subjects. Assam, with multiple ADCs operating under the Sixth Schedule, offers a critical site for evaluating the contemporary functioning of this constitutional framework. This paper examines the institutional performance of Autonomous Councils in Assam in the present context, focusing on whether the objectives of autonomy, participatory governance and protection of customary practices have been meaningfully realised. Employing a doctrinal and analytical methodology, the study analyses constitutional provisions, judicial interpretations, secondary literature and governance practices of selected councils. The paper argues that while the Sixth Schedule remains normatively relevant, its institutional functioning is constrained by structural ambiguities, financial dependence on State governments, overlapping jurisdictions and administrative inefficiencies. Political interference, limited accountability mechanisms and inadequate capacity-building further undermine the effectiveness of Autonomous Councils. At the same time, the paper highlights the continued relevance of customary institutions and local governance mechanisms embedded within the Sixth Schedule framework. The study concludes that the Sixth Schedule stands at a crossroads: its constitutional promise risks erosion unless institutional reforms are undertaken. Strengthening financial autonomy, clarifying jurisdictional boundaries, enhancing democratic accountability and reinforcing customary justice mechanisms are essential to revitalising tribal self-governance in Assam.