SHILLONG: The Executive Member in charge of Elaka of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) , Pyniaid Sing Syiem, on Monday said Syiem, Myntri of various Hima are not allowed to campaign for any political party or candidate during elections to Parliament, Legislative Assembly and district council.
He said this in reply to a question by Congress MDC Ronnie Lyngdoh whether Syiem, Myntri of various Hima are allowed to take part in politics while alleging involvement of traditional heads in canvassing for a particular candidate in the council election held in February. He raised the matter during the question hour of the ongoing Budget session of the KHADC.
Pyniaid referred to Section 12 of the United KhasiJaintia Hills Autono-mous District (Appointment and Succession of Chiefs and Headmen) Act, 1959, which states that “no chief, deputy chief and acting shall be a member of or be otherwise associated with any political party or any organization which takes part in polities, nor shall he take part in subscribe in aid of or assist in any other manner, any political movement or activity”.
“If any question arises whether any movement or activity falls within the scope of this Act the decision of the Executive Committee shall be final,” he quoted the Act.
Ronnie said he had come to know that in the last election in Mylliem, the Syiem, Myntri took part in politics and canvassed for political parties.
He alleged the headmen were forced to support a certain candidate. “We have proper evidence,” he said.
In this connection, he urged the EC to issue an order to disallow the traditional heads from taking part in politics and elections.
He also alleged that acting Syiem of Hima Mylliem and Myntri were found distributing money to supporters. In view of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, he maintained there should be free and fair elections and people be allowed to exercise their right to vote.
Pyniaid assured to take up the matter in the Executive Committee meeting.
