Shillong: Opposition members staged a walkout from the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council on Friday during the final day of the Summer Session. The protest followed a ruling by Chairman Strong Pillar Kharjana, who disallowed a formal debate on the proposed Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Service Rules, 2026.
Leader of the Opposition Titostarwell Chyne pushed for a discussion on his proposed amendments, arguing that the new rules failed to protect the interests of Council employees. He contended that the Executive Committee was stifling debate despite its majority. Chyne stated, "Denying discussion amounted to curtailing the right of elected members to raise concerns and debate important issues before the Council."
Chairman Kharjana rejected the request for debate, asserting that the submitted amendments were already on the record and lacked sufficient merit for further floor time. Following a voice vote where the majority supported the Chair, the Opposition left the chamber in protest while the session continued.
The Council concluded the day by passing a deficit budget of Rs 16.92 lakh for the 2026-27 financial year. Executive Member in-charge of Finance Seiborlang Warbah presented the budget, which estimates total expenditures at Rs 214.60 crore against anticipated revenues of Rs 214.43 crore.
The Civil Works and Development Department received the largest allocation at Rs 130.37 crore. Other significant funding includes Rs 35.88 crore for the General Administration Department and Rs 10.20 crore for the Legislative Department. The approved funds cover salaries and operational costs across the legislative, executive, and judicial wings of the Council.
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