Shillong, Feb 18: The first day of the KHADC Budget Session witnessed a heated exchange over the delay in appointment of the Syiem of Hima Sohra.
Leader of Opposition Titosstarwell Chyne questioned the Executive Committee (EC) about a letter that referred to the Deputy Syiem as “Deputy Chief”, contradicting earlier statements that the post is not recognised.
Executive Member (Elaka) Denzil Raynard Chen stood by his statement, saying the Deputy Syiem is recognised only within Hima, not by the EC, due to lack of approval. He dismissed the letter’s reference as a mere “clerical error.”
Chyne raised concerns over the delay in appointing a full-fledged Syiem, questioning the Sanad issuance timeline. Chen responded that there was no fixed timeline, an Acting Chief was appointed, and the process will be completed soon.
Speaking to reporters after the session, Chyne criticised the Executive Member’s behaviour, calling it, “childish and unparliamentary in the traditional parliamentary democracy”. “I have been elected to the KHADC for the third term. I know all the rules of the Council. We had heated discussions and arguments in the Council, but not this kind of behaviour,” Chyne said.
He said the issue was not about who would be the next Syiem, but about clarity on the matter. Chyne stated that the Executive Member had earlier stated that the KHADC had not appointed any Deputy Chief or Syiem Khynnah, but a document revealed that the KHADC had addressed M. Syiem as the Deputy Chief of Hima Sohra.
Chyne questioned the Executive Member’s explanation of a “clerical error”, saying it was unlikely given the specific mention of the Deputy Chief’s name. He urged the Executive Member to clarify the matter and not blame the officers. “This is the second time officers have been made scapegoats due to errors committed by the Council,” Chyne said.
Chyne expressed disappointment with the Executive Member’s response and behaviour, saying he expected a more positive approach. He added that the appointment of the Deputy Chief and election of the new Syiem should be done in accordance with the United Khasi Jaintia Hills Autonomous District (Appointment and Succession of Chiefs and Headmen) Act, 1959.
