Syiem of Hima Jirang led a rally against Shnat Hima Nongwah Mawtamur’s plan to set up an administrative office in the village
SHILLONG, Aug 5: The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) on Tuesday held a meeting with traditional heads from Hima Jirang and Sohiong Lyngdohship in an effort to resolve an ongoing boundary dispute. However, the meeting, chaired by Chief Executive Member (CEM) Shemborlang Rynjah, ended without a resolution. Another round of discussions is expected to be scheduled soon.
It may be mentioned that the meeting was convened following a massive protest in Rani Jirang on July 30, where thousands of residents — led by the Syiem of Hima Jirang — rallied against the Shnat Hima Nongwah Mawtamur’s plan to set up an administrative office in the village.
The protesters issued a strong warning, stating that if the proposal is not withdrawn and the KHADC fails to intervene to safeguard territorial boundaries, tensions between the traditional institutions could escalate into a broader conflict.
Speaking to reporters, the Syiem of Hima Jirang, RH Wahlang, explained that the conflict arose after Shnat Hima Nongwah Mawtamur attempted to establish an office in Rani Jirang — a village that falls within Hima Jirang’s jurisdiction.
Wahlang further clarified that the issue remains unresolved, as it has been referred to a Core Group, following an order issued by the KHADC in December last year.
He alleged that the decision to form this group was made unilaterally by the former Deputy CEM, Pynshngain N Syiem. “We have made our stance clear—we do not accept the Core Group formed by the KHADC,” Wahlang asserted.
Meanwhile, Acting Lyngdoh of Sohiong Lyngdohship, Pedeon Lyngdoh Thabah, responded to the accusations, stating that the events of July 30 had strained relations between Hima Jirang and Sohiong Lyngdohship.
He clarified that his visit to Shnat Hima Nongwah Mawtamur was made following an invitation from the KHADC CEM, and not with any intention of assuming control over the area.
“There was no secret plan to hand over Shnat Hima Nongwah Mawtamur to Sohiong Lyngdohship,” Thabah said.
He also expressed concern over accusations circulating on social media—made by the Syiem of Hima Jirang, Myntris, and pressure groups—alleging that he had summoned villagers to gather at Shnat Hima Nongwah Mawtamur on July 30.
“There was no plan to inaugurate an office, forcibly encroach on Hima Jirang’s territory, or hold a public meeting in Rani. I was merely accompanying the CEM and Executive Members of the KHADC,” Thabah explained.
He said the invitation letter from the Council clearly stated that the visit was for inspection purposes only and was not intended to address the boundary dispute.
The Acting Lyngdoh also accused certain pressure groups of attempting to sow division within the community.
Regarding the alleged handover of Shnat Hima Nongwah Mawtamur to Sohiong Lyngdohship, Thabah stated that the KHADC had officially endorsed and recognised the transfer on December 13 last year.
“We fully respect and accept the Council’s decision,” he said.