SHILLONG: KHADC Chairperson Teilinia Thangkhiew has taken strong exception to the ‘misconduct’ of the Opposition MDCs while opposing the introduction of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District (Nomination and Election of the Syiem, Deputy Syiem, Myntri, Basan and Rangbah Shnong of Bhowal Syiemship) First Amendent Bill, 2014 recently.
“It is unfortunate that members were using unparliamentary words inside the House,” Thangkhiew told newsmen here on Tuesday.
She said that as Chairperson, she has always tried to remain impartial to all the members.
While recalling that after the Opposition MDCs had protested the introduction of the bill on the first day of the session on the ground that the matter was sub judice, she had decided to seek legal opinion on the matter.
“If I was partial, I would have allowed introduction of the bill on the first day itself,” the Chairperson said.
“Despite having the option to seek opinion from the standing counsel of the Executive Committee, I did not seek the opinion knowing the fact that he would give his opinion in favour of the EC. Finally, we sought opinion from an independent High Court lawyer,” she said.
While quoting the legal opinion given by the High Court lawyer, she said that on bare perusal of the order dated June 6, 2014 passed by the High Court, it is clear that Rule 30 of the Assam and Meghalaya Autonomous Districts (Constitution of District Council) Rules, 1951 is not a subject matter to be challenged before the High Court.
“As per the provisions of Rule 30, I am of the opinion that the introduction of the Amendment Bill in question is legally tenable,” she added.
She further said that Article 212 of the Constitution of India clear states that the validity of any proceedings in the Legislature of a State shall not be called in question on the ground of any alleged irregularity of procedure.