Hima Maharam traditional leaders fight land bill amendments

Shillong: Traditional heads in Mawkyrwat gathered for an emergency meeting Monday. They want the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Land Amendment Bill, 2026, scrapped. The Synjuk ki Rangbah Shnong ka Hima Maharam Syiemship argues the current draft guts the power of the Dorbar Shnong, Dorbar Raid, and Dorbar Hima.

P. Wanniang, the group's president, says the collective does not hate the whole bill. They have a specific target. "Removing this clause suggests there is no longer a need to consult local traditional bodies, which indirectly strips them of their powers and functions." Wanniang claims the amendment to Section 16 is a direct threat. It deletes the requirement for the Executive Committee to seek prior consultation with local traditional institutions.

The organization now stands with the Synjuk Ki Nongsynshar Shnong ka Bri Hynñiewtrep. That group previously rejected the bill and asked for a total recall. The local leaders demand the law remains intact to protect their traditional roles.