SHILLONG, AUG 7: Representatives of Synjuk Ki Rangbah Shnong on Thursday called on Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and Deputy CM Prestone Tynsong, pressing for state intervention against the KHADC’s “Land Amendment Bill, 2026” and a recent order fixing land ceiling.

Submitting a memorandum, the Synjuk said the Bill passed by the KHADC in June 2026 does away with a key safeguard in the 2021 Principal Act. 

Earlier, Section 16 required the Executive Committee to consult Dorbar Shnong, Dorbar Raid and Dorbar Hima before deciding on settlement, allotment or reservation of raid land. 

The amendment removes that requirement.Calling it a dilution of traditional authority, the delegation said indigenous institutions have historically managed community land and must not be sidelined. 

They cited a joint meeting of traditional bodies held in Shillong on July 7, where participants unanimously resolved to oppose the amendment.

According to the memorandum, the Bill contradicts both the spirit of the Principal Act and Khasi customary land practices. 

It also weakens cooperative federalism and democratic oversight, the Synjuk added, noting that traditional heads were not consulted before the Bill was passed.

The delegation further pointed to KHADC Order No. DCRBF/13/465/2026/14/161 dated June 11, 2026, which fixed a ceiling on raid land. 

The Synjuk termed the notification arbitrary, saying it bypassed the consultation mandated under Section 16 and could create confusion in villages.

Responding to the concerns, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma assured the delegation that the government remains committed to upholding traditional institutions, customary governance, indigenous land rights, and Meghalaya’s matrilineal system.

The Synjuk said it appreciated the positive engagement with the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister.