SHILLONG: With the tussle over funds by the MDCs of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) almost becoming a regular affair in the KHADC, the focus on preserving and strengthening the customary practices appears to have been neglected.
Commenting on the common financial affairs, secretary of Regional Democratic Alliance (RDA), Renikton Lyngdoh Tongkhar from the HSPDP observed that the row created by the MDCs pertaining to the funds provided by the Central government appears to be foolishness to the outside world.
The RDA is a combination of United Democratic Party (UDP) and Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP).
According to him, the state government has the responsibility to look after the developmental activities.
The attention of the MDCs should have been to monitor and legislate customary laws and look after village administration, clans and others.
Lyngdoh defended KHADC CEM Teiñwell Dkhar asserting it is too early to conclude that the KHADC CEM is incompetent since he has assumed office in less than 2 months ago.
“I don’t see that the CEM is incapable. It is too early to say that he is incapable, give him time to perform. After 6 months, the performance can be gauged,” he said.
The HSPDP has directed its MDCs to not act in haste during the political rumbling in the KHADC.
He said the MDCs are disciplined and they are still with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), the ruling coalition in the KHADC.
“I have suggested the CEM to hold a meeting with the disgruntled MDCs to arrive at an understanding and settle the matter. Differences and miscommunications do exist but these should be resolved across the table. I hope that the matter will be resolved,” Lyngdoh said.
On the other hand, he informed that that there are unconfirmed reports that some of the MDCs, who resigned, are likely to withdraw their resignation.
When asked on the reason of the resignation, Lyngdoh said, “The reason of their resignation is not clear. There may not be any discussions on the allotment of funds. They took offence that the CEM did not consult them. I have advised the CEM to take them into account.”
Three Executive Members (EMs) NPP MDCs Mitchell Wankhar, Victor Ranee and People’s Democratic Front (PDF) Macdalyn Mawlong submitted their resignation on Tuesday.
Besides the EMs, chairpersons of the advisory committee, independent MDCs Latiplang Kharkongor, Lambor Malniang and NPP MDC Gigur Myrthong also tendered their resignation on Tuesday.
