Shillong, October 23, 2025: A brief but heated exchange took place in the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) on Thursday between Executive Member (EM) Pynkhrawboklin Kharjahrin and MDC Bah Titos Starwell Chyne over a newspaper headline concerning the Council’s debate on professional tax.
EM Kharjahrin expressed discontent with a report that, according to him, implied that MDCs were hesitant to speak during the Council’s discussion on professional tax. He said such coverage undermined the dignity of the Council and urged journalists to exercise greater caution when reporting on proceedings.
“Journalists must not act as mouthpieces spreading misleading information, especially on social media,” Kharjahrin remarked during the session.
Responding, Bah Titos defended the role of the press, stating that reporting on matters discussed in the Council is legitimate and that the media has every right to express concerns or highlight issues through appropriate channels. He maintained that the headline did not fairly capture the spirit of the debate.
Kharjahrin, however, stood by his position, asserting that any act that affects the honour and integrity of the Council must be addressed and that he was within his rights to raise the matter.
The exchange reflected the ongoing tension between elected representatives and the media regarding press freedom, accuracy, and the responsibility of journalists in reporting legislative proceedings.
