SHILLONG: The Executive Committee (EC) of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) has decided to re-instate Bashemphang Thabah as the full-fledged Lyngdoh of Hima Sohiong.
Speaking to reporters here on Tuesday, Deputy CEM Pyniaid Sing Syiem said the KHADC wanted to dispense with the system of acting traditional chiefs but to appoint full-fledged chiefs henceforth.
Thabah was suspended as a full-fledged Lyngdoh by the previous EC led by former Chief Executive Member (CEM) HS Shylla on December 20, 2018. Syiem said the enquiry committee haf submitted a report on the matter on June 25, 2019.
Thabah was suspended on allegations of creating of new villages in Krang village falling under Hima Sohiong. Thabah was accused of issuing sanat (appointment letters) to 11 sordars in Krang village.
“The decision to form new villages was made in the Executive Dorbar and the Lyngdoh cannot make the decision in his capacity as a Lyngdoh. He is re-instated with the condition that he should report the system of administration in Sohiong to the KHADC,” he said.
Syiem said Thabah had flouted the Administration of Elaka Act, 1991 pertaining to the creation of new villages. However, the EC decided to reinstate him as it was evident that he did not act alone.
The village of Krang came in the limelight when 11 Sordars were found to administer the village of Krang and Thabah informed that there were more than 700 households in Krang
Interestingly, the 11 Sordars are entrusted to look after the village and subsequently accused of creating division in the village and families.
Admitting that the law and order situation in Krang is still sensitive, Syiem said the EC went ahead to re-instate Thabah as the KHADC plans to go ahead and do away with the system of having acting chiefs.
“We did not decide in a hurry. The Lyngdoh will have to work together with the EC for smooth administration,” he said.