Syiem jibe at ‘power hungry’ politicians

NONGPOH: Chief Executive Member of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, P.N Syiem, criticised the “power hungry” politicians and said they were working for their interest, on Day 1 of the ‘campaign for change’ movement at New Jirang market here on Tuesday.
The CEM reminded people about the efforts of Rev. JJM Nichols Roy, who was instrumental in creating the Sixth Schedule meant for the protection of tribal rights. “It’s been 44 years that Meghalaya has attained its statehood. But so far no proper law and regulations have been implemented by the Government to safeguard and protect the interest of indigenous people,” he said.
Criticising the “power hungry” representative of the people in the State, Syiem said instead of making laws to protect the rights of tribal people, they are working towards their own interest.
“It is a matter of grief that just because of the dragon law introduced by the government, the by-election to the seven seats of the District Council has to be re-conducted which is merely a colossal waste of public money,” he said and added that the local representatives, instead of making laws to protect local people’s interest, are making building by-laws and tribals are forced to seek permission for construction of pillars and houses in urban areas.
Addressing the gathering, chairman of the movement A. Lyngdoh said the campaign was aimed at safeguarding the interests of the indigenous people by formulating laws and regulations that would bring about n overall change in the State.
The campaign was also attended by RH Wahlang, Syiem of Hima Jirang, members of the CFC and headmen of various villages under Jirang area.