BJP MLAs signed resolution empowering non-tribals in Meghalaya: District Council chief

BJP in Meghalaya was left red-faced after party's legislators – AL Hek and Sanbor Shullai - were found to have violated traditional dorbar system to favour trading by n-tribals, drawing criticism from social organisations in this hill state.

Khasi Hills Automous District Council chief executive member Pyniaid Syiem told PTI, "We have seen it in paper that a resolution was signed by two legislators Hek and Shullai. This is strongly against rule of Elaka Administration Act of council." Hek, one of two MLAs, is a cabinet minister in present Meghalaya Democratic Alliance government backed by BJP.

two BJP MLAs were found to have signed a resolution granting president of n Refugee Rehabilitation Colony Welfare Committee in Rynjah area of city to issue C to n-tribals to trade and provide residential certificates for all purposes.

RR Colony is a settlement of about 250 homes that was built for those who fled Bangladesh in 1971 war, mostly Hindu families.

According to tribal council CEM, such resolution violates authority granted to traditional dorbars by council since area is under jurisdiction of Dorbar Shng of Rynjah, which is duly recognized by council.

Several organisations have accused BJP of trying to meddle with traditions of tribal people in state.

Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People feels that MLAs should refrain from making such callous and irresponsible acts which devalues role of our traditional bodies.

FKJGP also issued a strong warning against RRWC to stop meddling with affairs related to issuing of Cs or RCs to people of area.

" RRWS should instead act in accordance with tification of Hima Mylliem in 2019 which declared colony as m Rynjah or else federation will be forced to tread a different path in order to safeguard our culture and tradition," FKJGP said.

KHADC chief also reiterated that while council had intention to interfere with religious rights as a welfare society, he added that, "As administration is concerned, we will ensure that residents of area should follow rules of land. This is Khasi Hills and t Bangladesh or West Bengal and 2019 tification stands till today," Syiem said.

Meanwhile, when sought clarification, Hek feigned igrance on subject.

" question of helping n-tribals only does t arise at all. We are here to help all people in state," he said.

"re is question of violating traditions or council. We help everybody who needed our help. This is responsibility of leaders and BJP," he added.