By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 24: The Opposition in the KHADC has urged Chief Executive Member (CEM) Shemborlang Rynjah to consult local MDCs on matters concerning the Himas, Elakas, and Village Dorbars that fall within their respective constituencies.
KHADC Opposition Leader Titosstarwell Chyne clarified that the Opposition does not seek to interfere with the role of the Executive Committee (EC) in dealing with traditional institutions “but what we want is for the EC to involve local MDCs in any issues concerning these traditional bodies, so that they may provide their suggestions.”
According to him, Nongpoh MDC Rona Khymdeit and Mawsynram MDC Alvin K Sawkmie have both expressed their wish to be consulted and allowed to give inputs on matters concerning traditional bodies under their constituencies.
Recently, Opposition MDCs had also urged the CEM to convene a meeting with traditional heads to address growing concerns over the influx of outsiders from Assam and Bangladesh. Chyne informed that the CEM had assured them the Opposition MDCs would be included in future discussions with traditional authorities. Chyne further pointed out that the issue has now gone beyond illegal entrants from Assam, citing cases of alleged infiltration by individuals from Bangladesh into council-administered areas such as Mawsynram and Ranikor, where they have even attempted crimes against locals.
He stressed the seriousness of the situation and called on the EC to adopt stringent and proactive measures. “We are particularly concerned about people evicted from Assam who are now attempting to enter border villages and even urban areas under the KHADC’s jurisdiction,” Chyne said.