By Ialam D
The recent remarks by the members of the Voice of the People Party (VPP) regarding the Khasi and Pnar communities in the matter of the railway line in the Pnar region have sparked a critical debate, highlighting the cultural and political dynamics between the two communities. This issue has also brought to light their differing approaches to development and identity preservation. The behaviour of VPP members towards Cabinet Minister Mr. Kyrmen Shylla during discussions on the railway line issue has further exacerbated tensions, raising concerns about the erosion of respect and decorum in political discourse. It is imperative for political leaders to maintain civility and constructive dialogue, even in the face of disagreements, to uphold the integrity of the democratic process.
While the Khasi and Pnar are considered a single tribe, they possess distinct cultural, social, and historical identities. These differences are formally recognized in the administrative division of the United Khasi-Jaintia Autonomous District (UKJAD) into two autonomous councils: the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) and the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC). The KHADC predominantly represents the Khasi community, while the JHADC primarily represents the Pnar community. This administrative separation underscores the unique identities and needs of each community, allowing for more tailored governance and development initiatives.
The recent MDC elections in Meghalaya also highlighted the distinct political preferences of the Khasi and Pnar communities. While the VPP secured a resounding victory in the Khasi Hills, winning 17 seats and demonstrating strong support among the Khasi people, their performance in the Jaintia Hills was less impressive, with only 8 seats won. This contrast underscores the differing political appeal of the VPP in the two communities, reflecting their unique cultural and historical contexts. The VPP’s popularity among the Khasis does not necessarily translate to the Pnar community. The Khasi and Pnar communities also exhibit distinct economic characteristics that shape their perspectives on development projects like the proposed railway line.
The Pnar community is often associated with a strong tradition of entrepreneurship and business, with many individuals actively involved in trade, commerce, and small-scale industries. They are generally perceived as self-reliant, with a willingness to take calculated risks and a focus on economic independence. On the other hand, the Khasi community tends to show a preference for salaried employment, with many individuals gravitating towards government jobs, education, and healthcare sectors. This inclination towards stable and secure employment often shapes their approach to economic development, emphasizing caution and long-term security over risk-taking and entrepreneurial ventures.
These economic differences are also reflected in the communities’ responses to the proposed railway line. The Pnar community generally supports the project, viewing it as an opportunity to boost trade, commerce, and economic growth. They see the railway as a catalyst for development that aligns with their entrepreneurial spirit. On the other hand, the Khasi community has expressed concerns about the potential environmental and social impacts of the project, particularly the fear of an influx of immigrants that could threaten their tribal identity. This fear psychosis, rooted in historical experiences and cultural preservation concerns, has been amplified by certain politicians and NGOs, who have used emotive appeals to mobilize opposition to the railway line. However, the Pnar community’s pragmatic approach to the railway project stands in stark contrast to the Khasi community’s apprehensions.
The Pnar people, with their rich history as part of the Hindu Kingdom of Jaintiapur, have demonstrated a remarkable ability to preserve their cultural identity while engaging with external influences. Their confidence in their roots and traditions has enabled them to adapt to changing circumstances without compromising their heritage. This resilience is evident in their support for the railway project, which they see as a means to enhance economic opportunities while maintaining their cultural integrity. Also, the assertion that the railway line constitutes unsustainable development, as raised by the Mawlai MLA, is misleading and warrants closer scrutiny.
In reality, railway lines are widely recognized as catalysts for sustainable development. They play a pivotal role in facilitating the transportation of agricultural goods, boosting trade and commerce, and reducing carbon emissions by offering a more environmentally friendly alternative to road transport. Additionally, railways create employment opportunities, enhance access to essential services, and contribute to overall economic growth. To alleviate the Khasi community’s concerns, it is essential to clarify that the proposed railway line will operate exclusively as a goods train service, with no passenger trains permitted. This approach ensures that the primary focus of the railway will be on economic development, particularly in facilitating the movement of goods and boosting local trade. By limiting the railway to goods transportation, the project can deliver significant economic benefits, such as increased trade, job creation, and improved market access, without compromising the cultural and social fabric of the region.
Furthermore, it is important to note that the railway line will not pass through lands under the jurisdiction of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), addressing concerns about its impact on areas predominantly inhabited by the Khasi community. The rights of both the Khasi and Pnar people must be respected in a fair and just manner, keeping in mind the targeted approach as recognized by the administrative separation of the United Khasi-Jaintia Autonomous District (UKJAD). The Khasi community, under the KHADC, and the Pnar community, under the JHADC have distinct governance structures that reflect their unique cultural, social, and historical contexts. The proposed railway line, which primarily affects the Pnar-inhabited areas under the JHADC, aligns with the development priorities of the Pnar community, who have historically emphasized trade, commerce, and economic independence. At the same time, the concerns of the Khasi community regarding cultural preservation and identity are acknowledged and addressed through the exclusion of passenger trains and the avoidance of KHADC-administered lands. This balanced approach ensures that the rights and aspirations of both communities are respected.
The Pnar community can benefit from the economic opportunities brought by the railway line, while the Khasi community’s concerns about cultural and social impacts are mitigated. By adhering to this targeted and inclusive framework, the project can promote sustainable development while upholding the principles of fairness and justice for both the Khasi and Pnar people. Recognizing and addressing the unique cultural, social, and economic contexts of each community is crucial for ensuring that development initiatives are effective, sustainable, and equitable. The Pnar community’s pragmatic and confident approach to cultural preservation and economic growth offers valuable lessons for fostering cross-cultural understanding and cooperation. By engaging in respectful dialogue and tailoring development projects to meet the specific needs of each community,
Meghalaya can achieve inclusive and sustainable progress that benefits all its people. However, the resistance to the railway line in the Jaintia Hills region, spearheaded by certain factions within the Khasi community, raises serious questions—not only about fairness but also about jurisdiction and overreach. The proposed railway line falls under the jurisdiction of the JHADC, which predominantly represents the Pnar community. It is deeply concerning that voices from outside this jurisdiction are attempting to dictate terms and block a project that does not directly impact their region. This interference is not only unjust but also undermines the autonomy and decision-making rights of the Pnar people.
To add to this, the Garo Hills region, under the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), already enjoys the benefits of railway connectivity. If the Garo community, with its own distinct cultural and administrative identity, can embrace railway infrastructure without compromising its heritage, why should the Pnar community be denied the same opportunity? This glaring double standard exposes the hypocrisy of those opposing the railway line in Jaintia Hills. It begs the question: Is this resistance truly about preserving cultural identity, or is it a politically motivated attempt to control and stifle the progress of a neighbouring community?
It is unacceptable for one community to impose its will on another, especially when the project in question lies entirely outside its jurisdiction. The Pnar community has every right to pursue development initiatives that align with their economic aspirations and cultural values. Blocking the railway line under the guise of cultural preservation, while ignoring the successful example of Garo Hills, is not only unfair but also detrimental to the spirit of unity and cooperation that Meghalaya strives to uphold.
The time has come for all stakeholders—political leaders, community representatives, and civil society—to rise above narrow interests and work towards equitable development. The rights and aspirations of the Pnar community must be respected, and their autonomy in decision-making must be upheld. Meghalaya’s future depends on its ability to embrace progress while honouring its rich cultural diversity. The railway line in Jaintia Hills is not just about infrastructure; it is a test of our commitment to fairness, justice, and inclusive growth. The people of Meghalaya must not fail this test.