Shillong, July 7: The Synjuk Ki Nongsynshar Shnong ka Bri U Hynniewtrep, along with traditional clan elders (Rangbah Kur), on Tuesday unanimously resolved to oppose the proposed amendment to the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council’s land law, alleging that it would undermine ownership rights over Raid Land in the Khasi Hills.
Addressing the media after a meeting, the General Secretary of the Synjuk, Bah Ralp L. Blah, said the organisation had unanimously decided to reject the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (Regulation and Administration of Land) (Amendment) Bill, 2026 and demanded that the notification be withdrawn immediately. He also called for the Bill to be sent back for a fresh review.
According to Bah Ralp, the Synjuk will communicate its decision to all Dorbar Shnong, Raids and Himas across the Khasi Hills to seek their cooperation and collective support against the proposed legislation.
The organisation also resolved to submit memoranda to the Governor of Meghalaya, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, and the Deputy Chief Minister in charge of the District Council Affairs (DCA) Department, urging them to intervene and address its concerns regarding the Bill.
In addition, the Synjuk will submit a representation to the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), outlining its official objections to the proposed amendment.
Responding to a question on why the Synjuk had not sought a meeting with the CEM, Bah Ralp said the organisation would not approach the KHADC unless it received a formal invitation. He alleged that the Council had passed the Amendment Bill without consulting the Dorbar Shnong, Raids and Himas, which he described as the traditional custodians responsible for land administration.
The Synjuk maintained that its opposition reflects widespread dissatisfaction over the manner in which the Amendment Bill was introduced and processed. It argued that the proposed legislation could adversely affect the traditional system of governance and the customary ownership rights over Raid Land in the Khasi Hills.
