Mawsynram MLA Himalaya Shangpliang today supported the cause of Dorbar Shnongs to be officially recognized by the state government and given certain financial powers.
“I support that the Dorbar Shnongs need recognition as they are part and parcel of governance, especially at the grassroots,” Shangpliang told Highland Post.
“Any assistance needed from the Block Development Officer or Deputy Commissioner’s offices goes through the Rangbah Shnongs. Any project or schemes implemented also go through the Dorbar Shnong, especially in rural areas,” he said.
The government thus relies on the Dorbars to streamline its work but it is one-sided if the state does not give some authority and financial powers to the traditional institutions, the Congress legislator said.
Stating the government of Meghalaya should heed the spirit of the Panchayati Raj system, which also starts from the village level, he said, “This will help the Dorbar Shnongs with direct funding at the grassroots and bring transparency.”
Nagaland has a village development board with a unique democratic, governing system and there is no reason why Meghalaya cannot have something similar, Shangpliang opined.
Ka Synjuk ki Nongsynshar Shnong ka Bri U Hynñiewtrep (SNSBH) has recently demanded the state government to empower the Dorbar Shnong and give them recognition.
The Synjuk have also decided to seek an audience with the state government in these few days on this matter.
The Synjuk has maintained that the government has used the Dorbar Shnongs for many purposes and whenever needed, especially in times of difficulties, such as during the Covid-19 pandemic was at its height, but with no financial assistance or recognition.
