Discussions touched upon district council interference in traditional governance, trading licence for central govt institutions, Meghalaya-Assam border dispute
NONGPOH, Feb 17: Only two out of five candidates contesting from Umroi MDC constituency — George B Lyngdoh (Independent) and Rangkynsai Kharbuki (NPP) — attended the common election campaign platform hosted on Monday by five villages — Itsohpa-ir, Mynri Umsning, Khweng, Liarsluid, and Madan Rtiang — at the football ground in Liarsluid.
Although all five candidates were not in attendance, the event proceeded smoothly under the moderation of Kyrmenlang Uriah, Editor-in-Chief of Shillong Mail.
The remaining three candidates — Isynei Hinge (VPP), Naphishisha Marwein (UDP), and MD Syiem (Congress) — were missing in action, much to the disappointment of the voters.
Rangkynsai Kharbuki, the sitting MDC of Umroi and an Executive Member of the KHADC, emphasised that his primary role as an MDC is not merely to introduce schemes but to safeguard and strengthen traditional customs and protect land and natural resources. He highlighted legislative measures passed under the KHADC during his tenure, such as the Land Act, the Administration of Elaka Amendment Act 2023, the KHADC Regulation and Envisioned Land Act 2021, and the Khasi Social Custom of Lineage Amendment Act 2023.
ADC interference
George B Lyngdoh, on the other hand, strongly criticised the alleged political interference of the District Council in traditional governance. He expressed concerns over the Council’s repeated interference in the selection of Syiems, Sordars, Lyngdohs, and village headmen, who are traditionally chosen based on customs and public consensus. He warned that such political meddling could erode the foundation of Khasi traditional governance.
Lyngdoh also addressed land-related issues, stating that many residents, particularly in Umroi, struggle to secure even a small plot for their homes, especially single mothers and daily wage earners.
He accused both the District Council and the state government of failing to take any concrete action to address land insecurity.
Trading licence
Another critical issue he raised was the non-enforcement of the District Council’s Trading Licence in central government institutions such as military camps, ICAR, NESAC, and NERI. He questioned why these establishments operate without trading regulations while local youth struggle for employment opportunities. He further alleged that the District Council, since its inception in 1952, has done little to regulate such matters, which has disadvantaged the indigenous population.
Traditional industry
Regarding traditional industries, Lyngdoh highlighted that the weaving and handloom sector in Umroi has existed for decades, yet neither the District Council nor the state government has implemented policies to support women engaged in the trade. He argued that instead of merely offering financial schemes, the authorities should create structured policies to protect and promote indigenous industries and economic independence.
During the meeting, a village elder revealed a recorded phone conversation allegedly proving that MDC Rangkynsai Kharbuki had interfered in the selection of a headman in Nongrim Nongladaw village.
The recording suggested that Kharbuki pressured the Syiem of Hima Mylliem to remove a headman elected by the villagers and replace him with an acting headman whom the residents had not chosen. This revelation sparked significant public outrage.
Border dispute
Answering a question about the border dispute between Meghalaya and Assam, George B Lyngdoh criticised the state government for merely being a signatory to the agreement without having a real say in negotiations. He alleged that Assam had pre-determined land demarcations and conducted surveys without Meghalaya’s active participation. When the matter was raised in the state assembly, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma reportedly failed to provide clarity, while the District Council remained passive. Lyngdoh stated that the government’s failure to include traditional leaders in border discussions has led to a flawed settlement process.
Voters upset
The absence of three candidates disappointed many voters who had gathered to hear their views. Further frustration arose when Rangkynsai Kharbuki, the NPP candidate, abruptly left the venue before the audience could ask him questions. He justified his departure by citing a misunderstanding regarding the event’s timing. While he claimed the event was scheduled from 10 am to 11:30 am, official permissions from the Returning Officer had sanctioned the programme from 11 am to 12:30 pm, contradicting his claim.
Despite the setbacks, the event successfully provided a platform for at least two candidates to share their visions. However, the absence of others left many residents feeling that they had been denied the opportunity to make an informed choice in the upcoming elections