By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Jan 11: The Khongjirem clan recently held its annual general meeting at Wahkhen village, reaffirming its commitment to unity, traditional values and the matrilineal system of inheritance that defines Khasi society.
The gathering, presided over by clan president Wet Khongjirem, adopted several important resolutions, including a firm decision that lineage and clan identity must continue to be inherited through the mother.
The meeting resolved that a male member of the Khongjirem clan cannot pass on clan lineage to his children if he marries into another clan, reiterating that clan identity is strictly matrilineal.
The clan also unanimously resolved to extend full support to the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) in its efforts to safeguard and preserve the matrilineal system of inheritance through the female line.
Another key resolution adopted at the meeting stated that members of the Khongjirem clan residing in different parts of the country or abroad should not alter or adopt any other clan identity, but must continue to retain the Khongjirem clan name wherever they live.
As part of the programme, the clan honoured members who have brought distinction to the community through academic excellence and contributions to society.
Those felicitated included Saharalinda Khongjirem, Mung Khongjirem, Emdur Khongjirem and Frederick Khongjirem for their outstanding performance in the matriculation (SSLC) examinations. Skhembor Khongjirem was also felicitated for receiving the Meghalaya Art and Heritage Award in the field of music from the state government.
Earlier, the annual report was presented by clan secretary Pynjapbor Khongjirem.
The meeting also witnessed an exchange of views and suggestions from senior clan members, including Komik Khongjirem, Babu Kular Khongjirem and Skhembor Khongjirem, along with inputs from women and youth members of the clan.
The annual meet concluded with a renewed call for unity, preservation of tradition and collective responsibility towards strengthening the social and cultural fabric of the clan.
