EM Powell Sohkhlet Assures Council Will Seek Explanation from State Government and BSF

Shillong, October 23, 2025 — The second sitting of the Autumn Session of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) on Thursday witnessed concern over a recent Border Security Force (BSF) search operation at Sojaram village under Hima Maharam in Southwest Khasi Hills District.

Raising the issue, Rambrai-Jyrngam MDC Bah Pius Marweiñ questioned the legality and necessity of the BSF’s presence in a non-border village that falls entirely under the jurisdiction of the traditional Hima and the KHADC. He said the unannounced entry and search by BSF personnel had caused anxiety among residents, who were reportedly not informed in advance.

In his reply, Executive Member (EM) in charge of Elaka, Bah Powell Sohkhlet, said the Council views the matter with seriousness and will immediately seek a detailed clarification from both the State Government and BSF authorities.

Sohkhlet asserted that the KHADC would not permit any external force to enter traditional jurisdictional areas without prior intimation to the local Dorbar Shnong and the District Council, as provided under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

“We stand firmly for the rights of our people and the authority of traditional institutions. If the operation was conducted without official intimation, we will demand a formal explanation and ensure such actions are properly regulated,” EM Sohkhlet stated.

The Council noted the issue as urgent and assured that a follow-up status report would be presented in the next sitting.