By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 14: The traditional leaders under Sohra Syiemship have threatened to storm the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) if it does not comply with their demand to revoke the June 24 notification reclassifying Majai into a Raid.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting of the traditional heads under Sohra Syiemship, Syiem of Hima Sohra, Freeman Sing Syiem, stated that they would be forced to approach the KHADC to compel KHADC CEM, Pyniaid Sing Syiem, to revoke the notification.
He mentioned that they have yet to receive any official order from the council requesting the Hima to return all original land documents issued to non-tribals in Majai, even though the deadline issued by the council ended on Monday.
On the other hand, Secretary of Hima Sohra, BV Rymmai, said that they have not received anything in writing from the council, despite the Hima’s readiness to return all the original land documents issued to non-tribals.
Arguing that the KHADC has no authority to reclassify Majai into a Raid without the consent of the Dorbar Hima Sohra, he pointed out that Hima Sohra currently has five Raids under its jurisdiction, and the creation of a sixth Raid would require the consent of the Dorbar Hima Sohra.
Moreover, he emphasised that the KHADC would need to collaborate with Hima Sohra if it genuinely intends to remove non-tribal businessmen from Majai.
“I want to make it clear that the Hima will not be held responsible for any untoward incidents if the Council decides to proceed independently,” Rymmai said.
Rymmai also highlighted that there are many areas under Hima Sohra inhabited by non-tribals, not just Majai. He cited areas like Ichamati and Kalatek as examples.
He further alleged that some individuals with vested interests want to bring attention to Majai, similar to the Them Iew Mawlong issue.
Meanwhile, the Dorbar Hima of Sohra, which met on Monday and included Rangbah Shnongs and Sirdars, opposed the notification of Majai as a Raid.