Shillong, June 7: The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) has decided to institute an inquiry into the alleged illegal establishment of a village by non-Khasi settlers in Ri Bhoi District.

The decision was taken after the matter was brought to the notice of the KHADC chief executive member, Teiñwell Dkhar by a delegation of the Hynñiewtrep Youths’ Council (HYC) Byrnihat Circle on Friday.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, president of the HYC Byrnihat Circle, Warnes Lamin said, “We have demanded from the KHADC to take action against the illegal establishment of Upper Nerbong village.”

According to him, the Nepali settlers were given space on a private land at Nerbong Pyllun village under Raid Marwet of Mylliem Syiemship since 1987.

“However, without getting the consent of the Syiem of Raid Marwet, they (Nepali) had set up the village and even appointed a headman, which is in violation of the Mylliem Syiemship rules and against the land transfer Act,” he said.

He said that these settlers also have their village employment council (VEC) and they have been availing schemes from the Block Development Office, Umling.

On seeking clarification from the Syiem (chief) of Raid Marwet, Lamin said that the Syiem has stated that the Raid was not unaware of the existence of the Upper Nerbong nor has it given any Sanat (letter of confirmation) to the headman of the said village.

The KHADC chief executive member has assured to institute an inquiry and accordingly take necessary action on the matter.