Editor,
The controversy relating to the denial of permission by some Dorbar Shnong to perform the last rites of late Dr Sailo within their respective jurisdictions, once again raises questions about this local institution’s legitimacy while exercising its power. There is even the suggestion that it is in the interest of the government that this institution is empowered.
It is a fact that the Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) in Khasi and Jaintia Hills exercise control over this institution with these Councils having the authority for recognition, appointment, deposition, and suspension of the Rangbah Shnong. It would appear therefore that this Institution is outside the purview of the state government’s administration and it is the ADC which determines their role , functions and powers. Hence interference in the affairs of this institution could be perceived by the Councils as attempts to undermine their authority.
While these Dorbar Shnong are well established traditionally across Khasi and Jaintia Hills there are, however, ambiguities about their legitimacy and powers. The Village Administration Bill (VAB) introduced by the Khasi Hills ADC some years back seeks formal recognition and legality to the Dorbar while also defining its role, functions and powers. It also seeks to address the serious inadequacy in accountability and gender equality of the Dorbar Shnong besides other matters. The Bill which has the support of the apex body of the Dorbar Shnong is, however, yet to see the light of day which seems to leave the Dorbar in a state of vacuum till date.
It is understood that the State Government had also attempted to bring in the Meghalaya Grassroots Institution Governance Act 2015 with the proposal to firmly establish the grassroots institutions within the state including that of the Dorbar Shnong. The proposal clearly defines the role, functions and powers of the Dorbar Shnong and goes further with provisions for streamlining the process of implementation of programmes by this institution. This proposal has also been shelved for reasons not exactly clear though one of these could be because of unfavourable response from the apex body of the Dorbar Shnong.
Nevertheless, the Dorbar Shnong is continuing with local administrative function and developmental roles without formal investment of power in them. Undoubtedly it is a useful instrument for organising community involvement and ensuring people’s participation in the State Government programmes while helping in managing such programmes as well at all times. The Government could advance its efforts during the present Covid -19 crisis at the community level mostly with the active involvement of the Dorbar Shnong in their respective jurisdictions. Conversely, the Dorbar Shnong has been availing local development programmes from the State Government down the years which the District Councils have not sufficiently provided so far or are not likely to in the near future.
The continued interdependence between the Dorbar Shnong and the State government has obviously led many to consider that perhaps the Dorbar Shnong should preferably be under the State Government ‘s administration. This does sound logical since other than the consideration that this institution maintains its traditional status by being within the District Council, it does not seem that the latter can offer it much scope for advancement. In any case, the institution can still maintain its traditional status even if it is brought under the government’s management. Ultimately the Dorbar Shnong cannot be above a constitutionally elected government and its administrative arms when the need for enforcing the law arises.
From what has been assessed and opined there is the need perhaps for the apex body of the Dorbar Shnong and the District Councils to reassess the need for maintaining the position of the Dorbar Shnong as established or otherwise. Likewise the State Government may need to consider if it is to firmly establish the Dorbar Shnong as one of it legitimate arms. A joint effort of all the three constituents is, however, imperative to overcome hurdles while making efforts towards improving the Dorbar Shnong’s position and functions and in establishing its standing.
Yours etc.,
KL Tariang,
Via email