Editor,
It is a known fact that with time, there comes a wave of change that succeeds it. No culture is static. It must be responsive to new elements and therefore, must dynamically adjust itself to fit in with the present age and day. In line with the verdict of the Hon’ble High Court of Meghalaya concerning the powers and functions of the Rangbah Shnong, the KHADC must take this opportunity to revisit certain realms of the indigenous administrative system of our “shnong” which, we cannot deny, has certain loopholes, in order to make it a better and more efficient agent of good and accountable governance. In a land where the Constitution stands supreme, the very ideal of EQUALITY must not be overlooked or discarded. The KHADC must ensure therefore that women too are given a share in the administrative setup of their shnong. There are many intellectually endowed and seasoned female leaders in our state who can contribute immensely to the welfare of the society at large. We must not forget that even in male – dominated, patriarchal societies of the country, in institutions such as the Panchayati Raj, women are given appropriate representation. I see no difficulty in giving women a right to be a part of the executive committee of the Dorbar Shnong, especially since Meghalaya is a matrilineal society. Another point I would like to make is regarding the work of the Rangbah Shnong. I understand that he is equivalent to a Third Class Judicial Magistrate. At present as far as I can observe there seems to be a lot of confusion among the masses. Confusion arises when it comes to matters pertaining to Residential Certificates, NOC for Trading Licenses, Land Transactions, Character Certificate, etc. In the Khasi Hills, it will always be an acknowledged fact that the Rangbah Shnong and his Dorbar play an indispensable role in grassroots administration. True, there are some who misuse their authority and manipulate their office, but these must be dealt with individually and relatively by the competent authority. The KHADC must legislate a law that will make the office of the Rangbah Shnong accountable and transparent. He must be officially empowered to serve as the major link among the residents of a shnong in matters of development that will affect them socially, politically and economically. The time has come to once and for all institutionalise the office of the RS. We cannot have the Panchayati Raj in Khasi Hills as that would be absurd as it will contradict our customary laws and practices; elements which are extremely vital for the sustainence of any indigenous community. I urge upon the Meghalaya Government not to delay examining the Village Administration Bill any further and allow the KHADC to do the needful. The VAB may have its drawbacks, but it is a good start.
At least the Dorbar Shnong can start functioning normally again. A law can always be amended and rewritten. At present, we must not think of party interests but of the welfare of the entire Jaidbynriew. Our customs must be strengthened. Discard the bad and accept the good. We are in desperate need of a stable grass-roots governance system, one that has a strong legal backing and not just on customary conventions.
Yours etc.,
Keith Nongsteng,
Via email
