Governor Chandrashekar H Vijayashankar has said approval to various bills passed by the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) was made due to the uniqueness of the culture and traditions of the community.
Speaking at the people’s assembly organised by the KHADC held in Polo Grounds today the Governor said, “I have approved various bills of the KHADC to empower various traditional institutions and I encourage all to maintain the method of functioning of various institutions and dorbar shnongs which are in line with the customs and traditions of this state.”
He said that he is pleased to hear about the existence of clans and various customs and traditions in the state. “I feel it is an honour to recognise and empower various clan organisations and others. I pay tribute to the mothers and the tradition of taking the lineage from the mother’s side which is very unique in this state,” he added.
The Governor lauded the recent amendments to the Khasi Hills Autonomous District (Administration of Elaka) Act, 2023, and the Khasi Hills Autonomous District (Khasi Social Custom of Lineage) Amendment Act, 2023, which empower grassroots institutions like Rangbah Shnong, Seng Kynthei, Seng Samla, and Rangbah Kurs.
He emphasised that the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution grants unique responsibilities to Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) and called for harmonious collaboration between ADC leaders and the State Government to ensure balanced development.
Education and youth empowerment were key themes, with the Governor advocating for enhanced efforts to reduce dropout rates, especially among girls, and to prioritize skill development and higher education.
He also highlighted the urgent need to address the growing menace of drug abuse, calling upon tribal organizations, religious institutions, and community leaders to collaborate with the Government under the DREAM initiative.
The Governor also administered a pledge which was taken by all the dignitaries and attendees to uphold the spirit of Meghalaya and to work together against the social evils like drug menace.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, while appreciating the Governor said that he understands the land tenure system, customs and traditions and it is on this basis that he has been quick to approve many of the bills of KHADC sent through the DCA.
He said that after the High Court order in 2014, the state government has been forced to pass laws to protect the district council and others.
On December 10, 2014, the High Court had stripped the Rangbah Shnong of their powers.
KHADC CEM Pyniaid Sing Syiem said that the Governor’s approval of the Administration of Elaka Act 2023 has been very important. “This is the first time I have seen a humble Governor and this has been witnessed through his participation today. We have about 54 Elakas, 5,000 villages including Seng Kynthei, Seng Samla, Dorbar Shnongs and about 5,000 clans in this state,” said the CEM.
The meeting was also attended by conglomeration of Rangbah Shnongs and clan elders.
