Inspection carried out in dhabas and shops in Ri-Bhoi village
NONGPOH, May 3: More than 20 non-tribal workers were on Friday found not to be possessing labour license during an inspection of various dhabas and shops within Pahamrioh village in Ri-Bhoi.
The inspection was carried out by the Seng Samla Shnong Pahamrioh, in collaboration with the Dorbar Shnong Pahamrioh, and was aimed to address concerns regarding the influx of non-tribal workers lacking proper documentation.
During the inspection, it was revealed that over 20 non-tribal workers were not in possession of the labour license. Among them, several had applied for licenses but were yet to receive approval from the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC).
Addressing media persons following the inspection, Seng Samla Shnong Pahamrioh president Banjop Pynrope highlighted the necessity of the exercise in response to a noticeable uptick in criminal incidents within the village. Pynrope emphasised the responsibility of the village’s youths in safeguarding their community and stated that the inspection was aimed to verify the legality of non-tribal workers’ employment, so as to prevent future untoward incidents.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the findings of the inspection, village headman Ronald Khongjoh referred to instances where non-tribal workers allegedly bypassed the KHADC, seeking Labour Licenses directly from the Office of the Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner.
Condemning such circumvention of established procedures, which, according to him, indicated a lack of respect for local regulations, Khongjoh pledged to report such violations to the relevant authorities at the KHADC for appropriate action.
Furthermore, village leaders have announced a grace period for non-tribal workers to obtain the necessary Labour License.
They have also warned of inspections in the forthcoming days, reiterating that those found without proper documentation would have to return to their respective states of origin.