Shillong, Aug 12: Politicians and businessmen, particularly those involved in the coal and limestone trade, are attempting to stir up trouble in Hima Langrin and it was they who were behind the trouble on August 7 that resulted in injuries to seven police personnel and damage to property.
That incident led the Syiem of Langrin, Nongtei Sing Syiemiong to convene a meeting of Lyngdohs and Myntris in Shillong today.
The violence occurred during a dorbar at Phlangdiloin, South West Khasi Hills. Around 1,500 people, mainly supporters of the Syiem, gathered for the meeting but later an equal number opposing him joined the dorbar. Towards the end of the meeting, police later said, a section of the opposing group became unruly and resorted to violence by damaging chairs and other property at the venue. They then pelted stones at police.
Speaking to reporters today, WL Sangriang, Lyngdoh of the Executive Dorbar of Hima Langrin, expressed his anger over the incident that occurred on August 7.
He alleged that the incident was caused by politicians and businessmen involved in the limestone and coal trade within the Hima.
Sangriang said that some of those opposing the Hima’s administration were from the Hima and others were not from Langrin but were allegedly hired by businessmen to create disturbances.
He further stated that under the leadership of the Syiem the affairs of the Hima had been progressing smoothly. The Syiem was suspended in 2023 following allegations of financial irregularities but the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) reinstated Syiemiong last month following an inquiry, which cleared him of wrongdoing. The reinstatement sparked major protests and a 15-day ultimatum from local residents demanding his permanent removal and a democratic election for the traditional seat.
Sangriang said that after his suspension in 2023 the administration has been functioning in an inappropriate manner, seemingly under the influence of politicians and businessmen.
On his part, Syiemiong said that, since his suspension, those operating coal and limestone mines had stopped paying the customary fees as well as taxes to the Hima. He claimed that the amount owed had reached as much as Rs 7-8 crore and alleged that this was the reason the businessmen were attempting to create a disturbance.
