The Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) has recently lodged a complaint with the Chief Executive Member and EM in-charge Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), alleging continued violations of the Trading by Non-Tribal Regulation 1954 by manpower service firms operating without valid trade licences.
KHNAM leader Thomas Passah said the organisation submitted the complaint after receiving a copy of a representation from a local firm detailing the alleged illegal operations within KHADC jurisdiction.
“We have submitted a complaint to your office with regards to the operation of the firms in supplying manpower service within the jurisdiction of the KHADC without a valid trading licence,” Passah stated in the letter.
Passah pointed out that the firm NESS was reportedly blacklisted and its trade licence cancelled, as per earlier statements made by the KHADC through the media. However, NESS claimed in a newspaper on April 29, 2026, that it has not been blacklisted and its licence was never cancelled by the KHADC. The firm has since received work orders to provide manpower at KV Laitkor. KHNAM has sought clarification and action on the matter.
He also said the Viraj Trading & Outsourcing Co, located at Lumsohphoh, Upper Mawprem, Shillong, is allegedly providing manpower at the Indian Air Force headquarters in Upper Shillong without a valid trade licence.
The other one is the SUNITA” C/o Aman Thapa, Lymshyiap, Nongmynsong, the firm is said to be supplying manpower at Air Force Laitkor Peak, Shillong, without a valid trade licence.
A Narayan Security & Manpower Services is allegedly engaged in providing manpower at Military Hospital, Shillong, without a valid licence.
“It is very unfortunate that such illegal practice is allowed to continue in the jurisdiction of the KHADC,” Passah said. He added that the organisation had earlier written to the CEM’s office appraising the council of the illegality, but no action was taken.
“These are matters that are the responsibility of the KHADC. However, with concern and sympathy towards our indigenous trades, we are again appraising you about the issues with an expectation that the council will act swiftly,” the KHNAM leader stated.
