Shillong: The Hynniewtrep Border Disputed Redressal Forum (HBDRF) has called on the Meghalaya government to formally bring Khasi-Pnar villages located in Block-I along the Assam border under state jurisdiction. A delegation led by the forum met with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday to present a memorandum regarding the administrative challenges facing local residents.
HBDRF chairman Chandame Sungoh explained that while the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council notified the Elaka Labang-Nangphyllut in 2023, the state government has not yet issued a corresponding notification. Without this formal step, residents struggle to obtain vital documentation, including birth certificates, electoral cards, and Scheduled Tribe certificates.
The forum highlighted a contrast with the state's treatment of Block-II, where 22 villages received recognition in 2004. This status grants those residents access to government services, electoral participation, and various department benefits that remain unavailable to the people of Block-I. The HBDRF specifically requested that the state integrate these villages into its police, health, and rural development frameworks.
Forum adviser Thomas Passah added that local farmers currently face difficulties managing agricultural land in the Labang-Nongphyllut area. Although the district council has started issuing land holding certificates, formal state intervention is necessary to secure traditional land rights and ensure families can participate in government welfare schemes. Chief Minister Sangma assured the delegation that his administration would review these grievances and schedule a follow-up meeting.
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