SHILLONG, May 13: A delegation of elders from Hima Langrin on Wednesday met KHADC Chief Executive Member (CEM) Winston Tony Lyngdoh to demand the reinstatement of suspended Syiem Nongtei Singh Syiemiong.
The elders argued that the Hima has faced administrative instability and internal unrest since Syiemiong was placed under suspension in 2023. They urged the KHADC to restore him to his position to ensure normalcy within the traditional institution.
Hima elder Shanbor Thongni dismissed previous allegations against Syiemiong as baseless and misleading. Another member, Enboklang Nonglang, claimed that a District Council court inquiry failed to establish any misuse of funds by the suspended Syiem.
Further, the delegation raised counter-allegations against those opposing Syiemiong. They questioned how critics could allege financial irregularities while they were reportedly involved in the utilisation of Rs 2.15 crore during the tenure of the Acting Syiem.
Furthermore, they alleged that one individual, Baldwestar Syiemiong, had previously auctioned Hima land where the Civil Sub-Division office is currently situated.
Christopher Lyngdoh, a member of the delegation, alleged that the individuals causing unrest are members of the Syiem clan who are themselves eligible for the post, suggesting a conflict of interest.
Meanwhile, the KHADC CEM assured the delegation that the Executive Committee would examine all relevant documents and provide a clarification on the matter in the coming weeks.
It may be recalled that following Syiemiong’s suspension in 2023, the KHADC had initially appointed Bryllen Henry Syiemiong as Acting Syiem. On April 8 this year, the Council appointed Pynshngainlang Syiemiong as the new Acting Syiem.
