The annual assembly of the Syiem Sutnga Clan, along with its exogamous group of fourteen clans, collectively known as Khatsaw Khnong, was held at Madankynsaw, Mookyndeng, East Jaintia Hills yesterday.
The event drew thousands of clan members from all over Khasi and Jaintia Hills who gathered to engage in deliberations on various matters related to the welfare and cultural preservation of the clan.
Some of the exogamous clans are Saio, Stui, Samaiang, Pajuh, Pakem, Passah, Salahe, Law, Shadap, Pasleiñ and few others including the Syiemlieh and Syiemiong clans of the Nongkhlaw, Nongspung provinces.
Advocate Erwin Khnong Syiem Sutnga in his address spoke about the colonial oppression endured by the Jaintia people. He shared his initiative to formally request reparations for the atrocities committed by the British colonial regime nearly two centuries ago.
Sutnga, in his assessment of the historical injustices, stated that the estimated loss of property and resources during these oppressive years amounted to over two lakh crore rupees.
He informed the gathering that the preparation for seeking justice and reparations is being made in full accordance with the legal framework. He emphasised that the efforts are grounded in the constitutional provisions of India, particularly the Sixth Schedule, and extend to the various levels of the judiciary, including the Supreme Court of India.
Furthermore, he highlighted that the legal course of action could potentially be pursued on an international scale, referencing the possibility of taking the matter to the International Court of Justice. This step, he clarified, is being undertaken to ensure that the pursuit of justice for the historical wrongs committed against the Jaintia people follows due legal processes and adheres to the highest legal standards both within the country and internationally.
In response, he petitioned the British government, demanding both compensation for the losses incurred and a formal apology for the human rights violations committed during the colonial period. His call for justice not only seeks to address the past but also to raise awareness of the historical struggles faced by the Jaintia people.
Further emphasising the importance of cultural preservation, Erwin Syiem Sutnga urged the clan members to actively uphold the matrilineal tradition that defines their society. He called on them to propagate the importance of maintaining this cultural practice, stressing that it is crucial for the future generations to understand and cherish their heritage.
He appealed to the attendees to approach the upcoming elections for the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council with discernment and care. He encouraged the clan members to elect candidates who possess not only the necessary knowledge and skills but also a genuine concern for the cultural heritage and well-being of the people.
As part of the programme, some of the meritorious individuals who have excelled in their career were felicitated with mementos. The assembly was marked by vibrant cultural performances, which served both to celebrate and preserve the rich traditions of the Jaintia people.
