Traditional head’s body opposes HC ruling
SHILLONG: Toughening its stand against the January 13 High Court order empowering the state government to frame rules to streamline the powers and functions of the traditional heads, the Synjuk Ki Nongsynshar Shnong Ka Bri U Hynniewtrep (SNSBH) has served the State Government February 5 deadline to de-notify the proposed amendment to Meghalaya Services (Conduct) rules.
The decision to this effect was taken in a meeting attended by members of the Synjuk and representatives from several traditional institutions here on Thursday.
While opposing the High Court’s January 13 ruling, the members of the Synjuk extended solidarity with the KHADC’s decision to file a special leave petition before the Supreme Court in this connection.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, W. Kharshiing, president of the Synjuk, expressed resentment over the State Cabinet’s decision that bars a Government servant to hold office in various organizations including traditional bodies.
He threatened to launch agitation if the government fails to de-notify the proposed amendment of the service rules.
Stating that the Synjuk was against the decision to conduct election for appointment of a traditional head, he informed that a poster and signature campaign would be conducted in the city on January 26 in this connection. It may be reminded that the High Court of Meghalaya has recommended the state Government to bring in suitable and comprehensive legislation to settle the controversies connected with the issue once and for all.
The Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Uma Nath Singh and Justice T.N.K. Singh said that until a suitable legislation or an Ordinance during the pendency of the Bill, is brought by the State government, the directions passed by the single Bench headed by Justice S.R. Sen on December 10, 2014, will remain in force.
He argued that the present Government’s intention is to dissolve the traditional institutions and to bring a Panchayati Raj institution.
He informed that the Synjuk will seek an appointment with the Chief Minister Mukul Sangma to discuss on the de-notification of the proposed amendment to the Meghalaya Services (Conduct) rules and the Village Administration Bill. Kharshiing also claimed that they have informed GHADC CEM where the latter has assured to extent support to the demands of the Synjuk.
Speaking on the inclusion of women in the traditional institutions, he said that it is high time that women should take part in the functioning of the Dorbar.
