Leaders assemble for 5th anniv celebration of state’s apex clan body

SHILLONG, Jan 7: The Dorbar ki Rangbah Kur, an assembly of clan leaders organised by the Synjuk Ki Rangbah Kur: Ka Bri u Hynñiewtrep to mark the fifth anniversary of the apex clan institution, was held on Tuesday at the Mission Compound community hall.
Addressing the gathering, KHADC Chief Executive Member (CEM) Pyniaid Sing Syiem spoke extensively about the enactment and implementation of customary laws, focusing on the empowerment and recognition of village and locality authorities, clan institutions, and women and youth organisations under the jurisdiction of the KHADC.
On the recent amendment to the Clan Lineage Act, Syiem emphasised the importance of clan registration with the relevant authorities. He explained that this measure would provide clans with specific powers while safeguarding them against the ulterior motives of unscrupulous elements in society.
The event also featured a special address by NEHU’s Prof Streamlet Dkhar on the theme ‘Tehsong ïa ki Kur Ka Bri U Hynñiewtrep’ (The communal bond of all the clans in Hynñiewtrep land).
Other notable addresses included those by the Syiem of Hima Khyrim, Balajied Sing Syiem, and the Syiem of Hima Mylliem, Ainam Manik Syiem. They provided valuable insights into the evolution of customary practices, particularly the impact of external influences such as British colonial rule.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, a souvenir edited by Raphael Warjri was released. Additionally, the founding president of the apex clan organsiation, HS Shylla, was posthumously honoured with a memento presented to his family.
The second session featured a symposium on the event’s theme, moderated by Erwin K Syiem Sutnga. The keynote address was delivered by Rapionglang Blah, followed by a brief address by RS Khardewsaw, who also read a paper presented by Dr MPR Lyngdoh.
The session included a lively interaction between audience members and concluded with closing remarks by Aristotle Lyngdoh, General Secretary of the Synjuk.
The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Syiems, Lyngdohs, other provincial heads, and leaders of clans and traditional institutions.