By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 28: KHADC Leader of Opposition Titosstarwell Chyne on Thursday asserted that while the District Council is mandated to safeguard traditional institutions under the Sixth Schedule, it must not remove elected traditional heads arbitrarily.
Speaking to reporters, Chyne addressed the recent suspension of the Syiem of Hima Mylliem and the vacancy in Hima Sohra. While declining to comment directly on the Executive Committee’s (EC) decision regarding the Mylliem chief, he noted that he lacks detailed information and may raise the matter during the upcoming KHADC session.
Chyne pointed out that while the Council is responsible for upholding customs, disputes often originate within the Himas themselves rather than from the Council.
“The duty of the District Council is to preserve and protect our customs and traditions. But within these systems of governance, disputes do arise, and these generally come from within the Himas,” he said.
He explained that the Council follows established procedures to address allegations against traditional heads, including hearings and show-cause notices. However, he stressed that such actions should be handled carefully, particularly concerning elected Syiems.
“There are procedures for removal, but it should not become a practice for the District Council to simply remove a Syiem who has been elected in accordance with customary processes,” Chyne said.
He also drew a distinction between the appointment of acting Syiems and the removal of those formally elected, stating that the removal of elected heads should be avoided.
