The Assam Club, Shillong, paid tributes to legendary bard of Assam, Bharat Ratna Dr Bhupen Hazarika, on his birth centenary at a cultural programme. Members fondly remembered his timeless contributions to music, literature, and the promotion of social harmony.

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, Sep 8: Fearing retaliation from Assam by blocking the entry of essential commodities into Meghalaya in the wake of a proposed protest by the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTTA) against the entry of tourist taxis from outside into the hill state, the Hynniewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO) has urged Governor CH Vijayashankar to take action against individuals or groups that allegedly act selfishly and risk disrupting the state’s harmonious approach to tourism.
The organisation made this appeal in a petition submitted to the Governor on Monday, voicing serious concerns over a recent press statement issued by the president of the Tourist Transporter Association of Assam.
HITO president Donbok Dkhar said the statement hinted at the possibility of a blockade against essential services in Meghalaya — a suggestion the organisation described as “deeply troubling and wholly unacceptable.”
According to him, the tone of the statement implied that Meghalaya falls under Assam’s jurisdiction, a notion that contradicts the realities of regional governance. Dkhar explained that the decisions taken by the AKMTTA are aimed at regulating activities around tourist attractions, in line with practices already followed by several local councils (Hima) and traditional village authorities (dorbar shnong) across the state.
Highlighting the irony, Dkhar pointed out that even within Assam, access to renowned tourist destinations such as Kaziranga National Park, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Garo Hills often requires visitors to hire local or authorised vehicles. These areas, he said, are far from urban centres and typically need specialised guidance to navigate their unique landscapes.
He further noted that to ensure safety and protect the environment, private vehicles are often restricted from entering such protected zones, making local transport essential for a safe and enriching exploration of the parks and their remote surroundings.
Meanwhile, Dkhar clarified that the call by the AKMTTA is not meant to prevent outside tourist taxis from entering Meghalaya. “On the contrary, these vehicles are welcome to drop off passengers at local hotels, with the understanding that tourists will then engage local transport to visit attractions, thereby supporting the community’s economy,” he said.
The HITO president also stressed that every community has the inherent right to determine its livelihood and make decisions in the best interests of its people.

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SHILLONG, Sep 8: The Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) has urged Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma to adopt the ‘Sikkim Model’ to restrict tourist taxis from ferrying visitors to various tourist destinations in Meghalaya.
In a letter submitted to the Chief Minister on Monday, KHNAM working president Thomas Passah recalled that the party had, in late 2017, submitted a representation to the government proposing that vehicles not registered in Meghalaya should be stopped at a designated point, after which only Meghalaya-registered vehicles would be allowed to ferry tourists to destinations across the state.
“What we have proposed is not something new in the country. We pointed out that in Sikkim, a similar arrangement exists, where vehicles not registered in the state are not permitted to ply to tourist destinations,” Passah said.
He further mentioned that, in this regard, the Under Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, via letter No. TRT.73/2011/7-A dated January 10, 2018, had directed the Commissioner of Transport to seek details from counterparts in Assam, Sikkim, and other states.
Passah noted that it was confirmed that Sikkim has indeed been practicing such an arrangement. The party was also informed that similar measures would be implemented in Meghalaya after the completion of the ISBT at Mawiong, Shillong. However, he lamented that no progress has been made since then.
“We would like to draw your attention to the recent criminal incident in Sohra, which caught national attention. Such an incident could have been prevented if an arrangement similar to Sikkim’s was already in place in Meghalaya,” Passah added.

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SHILLONG, Sep 8: The KHADC on Monday announced the formation of an “Operation Team” to patrol and crack down on the rising unlawful activities in Iewduh, particularly during night hours.
The decision was taken at a meeting convened by the Executive Committee of the Council under the leadership of CEM Shemborlang Rynjah, with the participation of Hima Mylliem authorities, police personnel from Cantonment Beat House, and other stakeholders.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, KHADC Executive Member in charge of Land and Traditional Institutions, Powell Sohkhlet, along with Executive Member in charge of Trade, Winston Tony Lyngdoh, said the initiative is aimed at ensuring peace and security in the marketplace.
They further informed that the Superintendent of the Council’s Enforcement Wing, A Lanong, has been appointed to lead the Operation Team.
The team will also include representatives from Hima Mylliem, police personnel from Cantonment Beat House and Lumdiengjri Police Station, as well as the CRPF.

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SHILLONG, Sep 8: The Meghalaya Indigenous Tribes Constitutional Rights Movement (MITCRM) has sought clarification from Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma regarding the state government’s proposal to pay the salaries of employees in the three Autonomous District Councils (ADCs).
In a memorandum submitted on Monday, MITCRM convenor RL Blah said the move has sparked “widespread apprehension” that it could erode the autonomy and self-governance guaranteed to the ADCs under the Sixth Schedule. The group has asked the Chief Minister to respond within 15 days. “We recognise the potential need for financial support to strengthen local governance. However, there is concern that this step may inadvertently undermine the ADCs’ autonomy,” the memorandum stated. The group added that it is open to further discussions or meetings to address the matter collaboratively.
MITCRM questioned how the Cabinet arrived at its decision without consultations with key stakeholders, including elected MDCs and representatives of the ADCs. The group also sought clarity on whether the proposed funding would be a grant-in-aid, permanent salary support, or a loan, and asked for the specific objectives tied to the proposal.
Blah warned that the move could be perceived as a political maneuver ahead of elections or as an attempt to extend greater state control over the ADCs. He cautioned that such aid might come with conditions limiting the councils’ decision-making powers on land rights, revenue collection, and local governance through the Dorbar Shnong.
The memorandum further raised concerns over transparency in the ADCs’ revenue and expenditure. MITCRM asked how tolls, taxes, and other revenues currently collected are being utilized, and whether any proposed aid would go directly to MDCs, council employees, or the councils as institutions. “We request a clear outline of how this aid will be structured to prevent misuse and ensure transparency,” the group said. The movement also stressed the need for safeguards to prevent any attempt to introduce the Panchayati Raj system in Meghalaya, warning that such a move would dilute indigenous governance. “We emphasise the need to protect the fundamental rights and cultural integrity of the Khasi, Jaintia, Garo, and other indigenous communities,” Blah said.
MITCRM argued that the ADCs play a vital role in safeguarding tribal land, customs, and self-rule, and that any government intervention must strengthen rather than weaken these institutions. The group also called for its inclusion in committee-level consultations on the matter.
The memorandum follows an extraordinary meeting convened by MITCRM on September 7 at the KSU office in Jaiaw, attended by indigenous leaders, community representatives, and women leaders. Copies of the memorandum have also been sent to the KHADC, JHADC, and GHADC, with a request for their response within 15 days.

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SHILLONG, Sep 8: The Khasi Students’ Union, South West Khasi Hills District (KSU-SWKHD), while lauding the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) for its recent raid at City Palace Inn, Lapalang, in connection with a drug trafficking case, has shed light on a much wider issue — the trend of Bangladeshi nationals marrying indigenous women in Meghalaya and subsequently acquiring Indian documents to legitimise their stay.
The hotel, raided by the ANTF, was allegedly operated by one Rana Ahmed, who escaped during the raid and remains at large.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, KSU-SWKHD president Marconi Thongni claimed that Ahmed is a Bangladeshi national who married a Garo woman from Rajabara, near Ranikor. “This is not an isolated case. We have been monitoring him for some time, and he has allegedly been involved in drug peddling on multiple occasions,” Thongni said.
The ANTF seized a large quantity of Yaba tablets from the premises.
According to the KSU, residents of Rajabara confirmed Ahmed’s marriage to a local woman. Thongni further alleged that Ahmed had previously been arrested in Delhi and Kolkata, where his modus operandi reportedly involved leasing hotels to carry out illegal activities. Despite his foreign origin, Thongni claimed that Ahmed has managed to obtain an EPIC card as an Indian resident. The KSU expressed concern that the district administration is aware of his background but has failed to act.
Urging the state government to take stringent measures, the KSU stated, “We call upon the authorities to act decisively on information regarding Bangladeshi nationals residing illegally.”
He also pointed out that in several cases, the BSF had apprehended such individuals and handed them over to the police. “These cases require proper follow-up,” Thongni added.

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SHILLONG, Sep 8: On the occasion of 51st anniversary of Shillong Records Collection Centre (SRCC) — the brainchild of late L Gilbert Shullai, an author, poet and a former Chief Executive Member of the Khasi Hills District Council — his family members felicitated the quintessential singer, songwriter and social worker, Lou Majaw, who was conferred with the Honorary Doctorate of Literature by the University of Science and Technology (USTM) for his outstanding contribution in the field of art and culture, peace building through songs and outreach activities, all aimed at the development of society. Lou Majaw was conferred the D. Litt. degree in August, 2024, along with Zubeen Garg from Assam.
In this simple yet meaningful ceremony was held at the Sha Ri Loum venue, Mawlai Mawroh, on September 8, Late Shullai’s son, Allan Lyndem, in his opening speech, said his father conserved old records, objects and books which have now become a veritable centre for accessing historical documents. He informed the gathering that his late father had a long-standing association with Lou Majaw dating back to 1972 when they were residents of Riatsamthiah. The duo would croon Sweet Caroline, Blowin in the Wind and Khasi song ‘Por Ba La Leit’ among others. Lyndem invited the guests to savour the exhibits related to Lou Majaw which has been carefully laid out in a room in Lyndem’s home for the occasion. They include write-ups of Lou Majaw from the magazine ‘JS’ which used to be a favourite of Shillongites. Among the exhibits was a book where (L) Martin Narayan Majaw had written a chapter on Lou Majaw.
Rev Fr John Madur, the main speaker of the occasion, narrated how he first saw Lou Majaw at the Don Bosco fete in 1973: Majaw was then with the band Blood and Thunder. Madur said he has been his fan ever since. “What sets Lou Majaw apart is that he combines in himself the role of philosopher, guide, raconteur and influencer and also his mismatched socks and short pants,” Madur said.
Lauding the SRCC, he said that the centre picked the right person to honour on this important day. He said that while Lou Majaw was conferred the doctorate degree for his passion for music which he never turned into a commercial enterprise, other scholars will earn their doctorate by researching the life of Lou Majaw.
When Lou Majaw was asked by the organisers to say a few words on the occasion, he decided to sing instead and belted out the song, Ballad of Frankie Lee and Judas Priest, following which the audience requested him to sing Blowin’ in the Wind.
An exceptional performance by young Gwyneth Mawthoh was followed by that of Amirphor Jyrwa and Andrew Thabah.
Later, Lou Majaw donated a guitar to the SRCC and autographed it. It may be noted that the SRCC is located at Lumbasuk Lawjynriew, Shillong, and is visited by many prominent scholars, researchers and political leaders.

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, Sep 8: The State Assembly’s autumn session opened on a sombre note on Monday, as legislators paused to honour the memory of leaders and prominent figures, who passed away in recent months. Tributes poured in from across party lines, with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Leader of Opposition Dr Mukul Sangma, former Speaker Metbah Lyngdoh and Speaker Thomas A Sangma leading the House in remembering their contributions.
The names recalled included former Meghalaya Governor Satya Pal Malik, veteran Jharkhand leader Shibu Soren, ex-MLA Samarendro Sangma, former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and several others, whose passing in the last six months has left an unmistakable void. The chief minister, reflecting on Satya Pal Malik’s tenure in Meghalaya, described him as approachable and deeply invested in the welfare of people. “He was very positive and keen to support different issues that the state faced and legislations we brought in. He had a vast political history, from serving as Governor in several states to being the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, and he shared that experience with Meghalaya,” the chief minister recalled. He also hailed Shibu Soren as a humble yet towering tribal statesman, remarking that his death was “not just a great loss for Jharkhand, but for tribal communities across the country.” Sangma further noted the tragic loss of Vijay Rupani in a plane crash earlier this year and remembered other promising leaders who died too soon.
Joining in, Mukul Sangma observed that the nation had lost men of stature—some after long public service and others in the prime of life. He fondly recalled Samarendro Sangma of Salmanpara as a grassroots politician, simple and accessible to the people he represented. On Satya Pal Malik, Mukul said his “different political approach and deep commitment for the masses” had left a lasting impression, and that conversations with him were both inspiring and enriching. Turning to Shibu Soren’s legacy, he praised his lifelong struggle for tribal rights and his leadership in the creation of Jharkhand. “His demise has left a huge vacuum in the sociopolitical landscape of the country,” Mukul said, before closing with a verse from Psalms: “He heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds.”
Speaker Thomas A Sangma, in his remarks, informed the House that sixteen distinguished individuals had passed away in the past half year. Among them, he highlighted Satya Pal Malik, Samarendro Sangma, Mizoram MLA Lalrintluanga Sailo and Vijay Rupani, noting their service and offering condolences to their families.
The Assembly then observed a moment of silence in memory of the departed.

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SHILLONG, Sep 8: The notification of the Search Committee (Constitution, Terms and Conditions of Appointment of Members and Manner of Selection of Panel of Names for Appointment of Chairperson and Members of Lokayukta) (Amendment) Rules, 2025, was tabled in the Assembly on Monday.
The notification states that the state government, exercising its powers under Section 58 read with sub-sections (3) and (5) of Section 4 of the Meghalaya Lokayukta Act, 2014 (Act No. 4 of 2014), has amended the existing Search Committee Rules of 2014.
Titled the ‘Search Committee (Amendment) Rules, 2025’, the new provisions will take effect from April 25, 2025. The amendment brings changes to Rule 9 of the 2014 Rules. In sub-rule (1), the honorarium amounts earlier fixed at “rupees two thousand five hundred and rupees two thousand” have now been revised to “rupees six thousand and rupees five thousand.”

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SHILLONG, Sep 8: The Education department on Monday announced that the second instalment of the Umbrella Scheme of Post-Matric Scholarship for Scheduled Tribe (ST) students for the academic year 2024-25 (Fresh and Renewal) has been released to 10,346 selected applicants pursuing professional degrees, postgraduate, and doctoral courses.
“An amount of Rs 6.17 crore has been disbursed from the unspent balance that remained due to some applicants not linking their Aadhaar with their bank accounts. As per guidelines, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs does not release further instalments if unspent balances remain in the SNA scholarship account. After utilising this balance, the department will now move for the release of the second instalment from the Government of India,” Director of Higher and Technical Education, HDB Sangma, said on Monday.
To cover scholarships for the remaining 60,226 applicants, Sangma said the department requires Rs 102.4 crore. Normally, this amount is released by the Centre in 2-3 instalments. However, the department will release the entire scholarship amount in one go by sanctioning State funds in advance, the Director said. the full scholarship amount for the remaining students will be released by the second week of December 2025, Sangma added. For queries, applicants can write to [email protected].