SHILLONG, AUG 4: Traditional institutions have asked Governor CH Vijayashankar to withhold assent to the KHADC (Regulation and Administration of Land) Amendment Bill, 2026, saying it undermines the role of Dorbar Shnong, Dorbar Raid and Dorbar Hima in managing Raid land.  

In a memorandum submitted Tuesday, the Synjuk Ki Nongsynshar Shnong and Synjuk Ki Rangbah Kur said the June amendment removes the requirement for the KHADC Executive Committee to consult traditional bodies before fixing a ceiling on Raid Land, a safeguard that exists in the 2021 Act.  

The groups, who met jointly on July 7, argued that sidelining the Dorbars weakens customary governance protected under the Sixth Schedule and breaks decades of cooperation between KHADC and traditional institutions. 

They also flagged a June 11 EC notification fixing the Raid Land ceiling, alleging it was issued without consultation and grants powers that contradict the parent Act.  

While stating they support the principle of a land ceiling, the bodies said it must follow proper consultation and come through a clear notification. 

They urged the Governor to return the Bill and direct KHADC to withdraw the June 11 order, expressing hope that he would uphold tribal customary rights and Meghalaya’s matrilineal heritage.