SHILLONG, July 7: Accusing the KHADC of bypassing the soul of Khasi democracy, the Synjuk Ki Nongsynshar Shnong (SNSBH) and clan elders have collectively rejected the controversial 2026 Land Amendment Bill, demanding an immediate recall of legislation they claim was passed without the consent of traditional custodians.
The decision was taken during a meeting of traditional heads and clan representatives, who expressed grave concern over the contents of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (Regulation and Administration of Land) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, and the opaque manner in which it was pushed through.
Speaking after the meeting, Synjuk general secretary Ralph L Blah said the gathering was unanimous that the amended law is unacceptable in its present form.
“The meeting resolved to oppose the Amendment Bill and demand that the KHADC withdraw the notification and bring back the Bill for reconsideration,” Blah said.
The Synjuk is now moving to mobilize village authorities, Raid institutions, and Himas across the Khasi Hills to build a united front against the legislation. As part of its escalation, the body will submit memorandums to the Governor, the Chief Minister, and the Deputy Chief Minister in charge of District Council Affairs (DCA), urging their intervention. A copy of the resolution will also be handed to the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the KHADC.
The primary grievance remains the alleged total lack of consultation. Blah pointed out that village heads, Raid authorities, and Hima administrations—the primary entities managing land under customary governance—were ignored before the Council approved the amendment.
Explaining why the Synjuk has not yet approached the KHADC leadership for talks, Blah said the Council chose to act unilaterally.
“They passed the Bill without consulting shnong, raid, and hima authorities. Since they did not involve us before taking the decision, it is now up to them to initiate a dialogue with the traditional institutions,” he said.
The opposition marks a significant challenge to the Council’s authority, as traditional bodies and stakeholders fear the amendment will undermine the role of customary institutions in land administration. The Synjuk stated it will continue to engage with stakeholders across the Khasi Hills to press for a total withdrawal of the Bill.
