By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Jan 13: KHADC Chief Executive Member (CEM) Winston Tony Lyngdoh has assured that the Council will seek clarification from Elaka Mawlong and Hima Majai over the presence of self-styled Gaon Bura (headmen) in non-tribal-dominated areas falling under their jurisdiction, the Hynniewtrep National Youth Front (HNYF), South East Sohra Circle, claimed on Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting with the KHADC CEM, HNYF South East Sohra Circle spokesperson Banjop Khongwir said the organisation had received information that certain non-tribals were claiming themselves to be Gaon Bura in these areas.
“However, when we questioned the Himas concerned, they stated that these persons were appointed only as in-charge. We have been assured by the CEM that he will issue a specific notice on this matter in connection with Elaka Mawlong and Hima Majai,” Khongwir said.
He further informed that the HNYF had also raised questions on whether Elaka Mawlong and Hima Majai had implemented or taken steps in response to the seven-point directive issued by the KHADC through a letter dated September 2 last year.
According to Khongwir, the CEM clarified that the Himas had sought additional time to implement the directives, particularly on issues relating to influx and the renaming of villages bearing non-Khasi names. He added that these matters are still under discussion between the Council and the Himas.
As per the September 2 letter issued by the Deputy Secretary, the Himas were directed to take serious note of and closely monitor the influx of outsiders within their jurisdiction. They were also instructed to conduct a comprehensive census of residents in Majai, including homeowners and tenants, along with proper documentation, within 45 days.
The KHADC further directed the Himas to collect details of all shops in Majai, including information on shop owners and tenants, along with valid trading licences of non-Khasi persons and copies of shop patta documents, within 30 days. It was also directed that all shops run by non-tribals without valid trading licences or proper documents be immediately closed.
In addition, the KHADC stated that any discussion regarding the change of village names from non-Khasi to Khasi names must be dealt with strictly in accordance with the Khasi Hills Autonomous District (Administration of Elaka) Act, 1991, as amended.
The directives also stipulated that the Dorbar Hima must be convened at least once every year and that a statement of accounts along with a report be submitted to the Council within two months.
The letter further stated that henceforth, no no-objection certificate (NOC) of any kind shall be issued to non-Khasi persons within Majai.
