Shillong: The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) shut down debate on its own land amendment bill Wednesday. Chairman Strong Pillar Kharjana blocked the discussion during the Winter Session. He claimed the Council lacked formal notice of the bill's return. This ruling stands despite Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong confirming the Governor returned the measure with observations.
Mairang-Nongkhlaw MDC Equator Nongrang tried to force the issue. He requested a discussion on the Khasi Hills Autonomous District (Regulation and Administration of Land) (Amendment) Bill, 2026. Laban MDC Ricky Shullai pushed back against the Chairman. He noted that Tynsong already confirmed the status of the legislation. "It is really unfortunate that the Chairman has passed a ruling not to allow the matter to be discussed," Shullai said.
Chief Executive Member Winston Tony Lyngdoh backed the Chairman. He stated the Council had no paperwork on the matter. Opposition Leader Titosstarwell Chyne blasted the decision. He argued the House serves as the proper place for public concerns. Chyne cited a report in The Shillong Times and Tynsong's own statements. The Opposition wanted to use Section 60(C) of the Council rules to demand answers.
They seek to know if the Governor’s notes mirror past concerns from traditional heads. Leaders from the Syiem, Lyngdoh, and Rangbah Shnong previously met with Governor and Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma to protest. The bill aims to cut Section 16 of the main Act. This section mandates consultation with groups like the Dorbar Shnong, Dorbar Raid, and Dorbar Hima before land decisions. The VPP-led Executive Committee passed the amendment despite pressure from the NPP. Members expect the fight to continue during Thursday’s session.
Comments