By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 25: An RTI activist has submitted a formal complaint to the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), alleging that the Office of Hima Mylliem has erected an excessive number of check gates across Ri-Bhoi without clear approval from the Council.
In his letter addressed to the CEM, activist Manbhalang Phankon stated that information obtained through an RTI query revealed the existence of twelve operational check gates established by Hima Mylliem in different parts of Ri Bhoi. According to him, these gates are being used to collect various fees and toll taxes from vehicles and traders passing through the area.
Phankon wrote that there is “widespread uncertainty as to whether such multiple check gates have received due approval or authorisation from the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) prior to their establishment and operation.”
He further said that the presence of these check gates has caused significant hardship to transporters and traders, who are “compelled to pay multiple toll taxes at various points,” leading to financial strain, disruptions in transport, and growing dissatisfaction among the public in Ri-Bhoi district.
In his submission, the activist urged the KHADC to take three immediate steps- conduct an inquiry into the legality and purpose of the check gates, verify whether proper authorization was obtained before their installation, and remove or regulate any check gates found to be illegal or functioning without the Council’s sanction.
Phankon asserted that the people of Ri-Bhoi are looking to the Council for quick intervention to prevent “further misuse of traditional authority” and to uphold fairness, transparency, and proper governance within KHADC’s jurisdiction.
