SHILLONG, Oct 17: The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) has decided to urge the state government to grant special recognition to the Rangbah Shnongs (headmen) and not limit their recognition to times when their services are needed.
This decision was made during a meeting between the KHADC Deputy Chief Executive Member (CEM) and the Rangbah Shnongs of Shillong, represented by the Synjuk ki Nongsynshar Shnong ka Bri Hynñiewtrep (SNSBH), held at the Council’s conference room.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, the Deputy CEM expressed concern that the government only acknowledges the Rangbah Shnongs when there is a law and order issue or when their help is needed to promote government schemes and programmes.
He pointed out that traditional heads do not receive the recognition they deserve when they approach government officials regarding issues or challenges faced by their localities or villages.
He also highlighted the role Rangbah Shnongs played during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasising that while their services were heavily utilised during that time, the government has failed to give them due recognition for their contributions.
The Deputy CEM clarified that they are not asking for legislation to recognise the Rangbah Shnongs, as they are already covered under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. However, he emphasised the need for government officials to show greater respect towards them.
He also suggested that the state government could notify the names of the various Rangbah Shnongs in the official gazette, further formalising their status within the system.
