Jowai, Mar 31: Residents of Huroi and Lahaleiñ, two border villages under Rymbai Elaka in East Jaintia Hills, descended on Jowai today to launch a protest against the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC).
The rally was sparked by the executive committee’s controversial decision to authorise Johny Suchen as the Waheh Shnong (headman) of Umpyrshin.
The agitating villages claim the JHADC issued a Sanad (appointment certificate) to Suchen without their knowledge or consent. During a public meeting speakers lambasted the JHADC for bypassing a mandatory public hearing. The protestors have also accused Johny Suchen of illegal land encroachment within their villages.
The protest took a political turn as leaders condemned both the EC of the JHADC and the National People’s Party-led administration for the move.
Upon reaching the JHADC headquarters, a delegation of 10 village leaders was permitted by the district administration and police to enter the council premises.
However, with the Chief Executive Member (CEM) and other Executive Members absent, the delegation could only meet with the JHADC Secretary.
Following the meeting, the newly elected Waheh Shnong of Huroi, Raja L Suchen, expressed frustration, stating that council officers claimed they were unable to make an immediate decision.
The villages have issued a stern ultimatum to the JHADC to expedite a resolution, warning that they will not be held responsible for any “incidents” or escalations that follow.
Adding to the local grievances, Mit Dkhar, the Waheh Shnong of Lahaleiñ, highlighted the physical toll on the region.
He noted that tensions and risks in the area have been exacerbated by the ongoing construction of the 166.80km four-lane high-speed corridor (NH-6), which passes directly through Huroi, Lahaleiñ and several other border villages.
