Traditiol body demands special KHADC session

Shillong, Feb 7: The conglomerate body of traditiol chiefs, Ka Dorbar Ki Khlieh Nongsynshar ka Ri Hynniewtrep, on Wednesday asked the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) to call a special session to discuss the alleged offensive statement of Nongkrem MLA Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit against the headman of Mawmuthoh village, Ribor Kharumnuid.

Taking cognizance of the MLA's alleged use of offensive language against the village headman - a 'street boy' or 'khynh shang surok' - the chairman of Ka Dorbar Ki Khlieh Nongsynshar ka Ri Hynniewtrep, John F Kharshiing, told newsmen in Shillong on Wednesday that "the language demeans the position and dignity of the traditiol headman who is chosen by the public".

 "We are demanding a special session of the KHADC because the language degrades the United Khasi Hills administration on appointment and succession of Chief and Headman Act, 1959 and the Supreme court Order CA 394 of 1960 where it illustrates that the chiefs have been legally empowered to function as officers of the district councils," said Kharshiing, who is also a Congress candidate from Nongkrem constituency. He is pitted against Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit (HSPDP), H.S Shylla (NPP), Lambor Malngiang (Indpendent) and Hilarius Pohchen.

Asked on the circumstances that led to the alleged use of the offensive statement by the local MLA against the traditiol chief, Kharshiing said, "It was basically because the sitting MLA was not allowed to hold a public meeting in his area as there was no permission granted by the district administration". Basaiawmoit could not be contacted for his comments.