Shillong: The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council has moved to settle concerns regarding its plans to digitise trading licence services. Executive Committee members confirmed on Thursday that the proposed digital transition will be restricted strictly to the renewal of existing licences. New applications will remain unaffected by the change.
The clarification follows questions from Leader of Opposition Titosstarwell Chyne during the Council’s summer session. Chyne expressed concern that an online system could create a pathway for non-tribal traders outside of Meghalaya to secure business licences. He warned that remote application submission could undermine local entrepreneurship and create legal ambiguity if the Council becomes obligated to process applications submitted through an online portal.
Addressing these fears, KHADC Chief Executive Member Winston Tony Lyngdoh stated that there are no current plans to move fresh applications online. He noted that those seeking a new licence will continue to visit the Council office to submit physical documentation. As Lyngdoh explained, “There is no question of introducing online applications for fresh trading licences.”
The discussion also featured support for the initiative from Laban-Mawprem MDC Ricky Shullai, who noted that the current manual system often suffers from administrative delays and potential interference from middlemen. He argued that digitising the renewal process would improve transparency, accountability, and efficiency.
The Council is currently reviewing the feasibility of updating its systems to include digital payments and status tracking for renewals. Any move toward a broader digital infrastructure will depend on securing technical capacity, proper software investment, and final approval from the Executive Committee. The Council already utilizes an online system for professional tax payments and aims to apply similar improvements to streamline renewal procedures.
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