By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 7: In a shift toward grassroots democracy, Pynursla has elected its first Rangbah Shnong based on public will rather than clan affiliation, ending a tradition that lasted nearly four decades.
The transition was formalised when the Syiem of Hima Khyrim, Balajied Syiem, handed the sanad (appointment letter) to Banteilang Thabah, following his election by the village dorbar on April 30.
For years, residents had campaigned for the right to choose a headman based on capability and public confidence, arguing that leadership should reflect the choice of the village rather than a select group of clans.
The election was initially challenged by representatives of three clans who historically held influence over the post. They lodged a complaint with the Syiem of Hima Khyrim, alleging bias by the pro tem chairman. However, during hearings on May 19, Thabah’s supporters submitted signatures from over 500 residents, while the objectors provided just over 60.
On May 26, the Syiem upheld the election results, citing the Khasi Hills Autonomous District (Nomination, Succession and Election of the Syiem, Deputy Syiem, Lyngskor, Bakhraw, Sordar Shnat Raid, Longsan Mansan Shnat Raid, Rangbah Shnong or Sordar Shnong and Administration of Khyrim Syiemship) Act, 2024.
Section 27 of the Act outlines qualifications for a Rangbah Shnong—including being an adult Khasi male, a resident of the village, and knowledgeable in local traditions—but does not require membership in a specific clan.
The dispute dates back to a 1989 ruling by Hima Khyrim, which restricted the office of Rangbah Shnong in Pynursla and three other villages to the Khongmawloh, Sohkhlet, and Khongthaw clans. This convention began to fade in the early 2000s after Siatbakon village successfully elected a headman from outside these clans.
Residents view Thabah’s appointment as the conclusion of a movement for merit-based leadership that began in the mid-1980s. With the issuance of the sanad, the village enters a new chapter where the collective will of the residents takes precedence over traditional lineage restrictions.
