Shillong: The Dorbar Ki Waheh Kur Ri Jaintia has issued a formal ultimatum to the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council, demanding action on the codification of matrilineal clan laws by June 30. Dorbar president Khroo L Pariat delivered the request in a letter to Chief Executive Member Thombor Shiwat, citing frustration over the council's ongoing silence regarding previous memoranda.
The push for these protections follows a June 13 meeting where clan elders and office-bearers reaffirmed the urgency of securing the traditional system of lineage. Pariat stressed that the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution explicitly grants the district council the authority to enact such legislation, which is vital for maintaining the cultural identity of Jaintia society.
Explaining the necessity of the movement, the organization noted that the "codifying clan laws is a primary objective of the Sixth Schedule, particularly in protecting inheritance and lineage traced through the mother," which remains a core feature of local customs. The Dorbar has requested a written report on the council's progress toward drafting the framework.
If the council fails to act, the group warned that clan elders may initiate public protests to demand compliance. To ensure the matter receives proper attention, the organization has also forwarded copies of the letter to Deputy Chief Ministers Prestone Tynsong and Sniawbhalang Dhar, calling for their direct intervention.
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