SHILLONG: The outgoing Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) CEM HS Shylla on Monday rued the presence of money power in polls and said it is difficult to break the mindset of the people as people lean more towards money and ignore the MDCs’ duty in the district council.
He pointed out that only two members of the Executive Committee (EC) –Latiplang Kharkongor and Victor Ranee came back as MDCs while the rest were rejected by the electorate.
“It is not easy to contest elections looking at the present situation. You may lose or you may win, even after we have come up with many laws, there is no confirmation of winning,” he said.
Known for his sarcastic remarks, Shylla said, “People did not elect the MDCs based on their performance. It all goes to explain who is good in the distribution of fruits during the election?”
Again, he said the distribution of MLA schemes should be reviewed.
While responding to the appointment of the new CEM Teiñwell Dkhar, Shylla expressed gladness that the post went to a senior UDP leader.
Calling Dkhar a gentleman, he said the new CEM is a person who is serious about taking up important issues. He is looking forward to the functioning of the new EC by taking up many of the pending Bills of the KHADC passed during his term as CEM.
Asked about his observation on the rotation basis of CEM post, Shylla said, “If he (Dkhar) can perform well, why is there a need to remove him? It all depends on his performance.”
Shylla pointed out that autonomy of the District Council is crucial which should not be compromised adding, “The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution is a constitution within a constitution.”
With Shylla keeping a distance from politics, he will don the hat of a resource person.
He informed that Congress has contacted him to talk to the new MDCs about the functioning of the district council and what needs to be done.
Asked whether he will contest the Lok Sabha elections, the former CEM said, “Depends on the pressure.” (laughs)
The way forward
The new EC still has a lot to tackle ahead as many bills such as the codification of customary laws, clan bill and others are yet to get government nod.
Shylla observed that the bills should be given importance and asserted, “The government should not stand on the way. The Governor should give his assent.”
Shylla informed that the Centre has sanctioned Rs 111 crore to the three Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) of Khasi, Jaintia and Garo Hills out of which Rs 52 crore will go to the KHADC. On the other hand, he expressed concern over rampant land grabbing which is taking place in the Khasi Hills as there are many people who have land holdings upto many hectares.
