SHILLONG : KHADC Opposition Leader and UDP leader Bah Titosstarwell Chyne on Thursday said that the direct removal of a duly elected Syiem should be avoided, while reacting to the recent suspension of Hima Mylliem Syiem Ainam Manik Syiem by the VPP-led Executive Committee of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council.
Speaking to reporters, Bah Chyne said he would reserve detailed comments on the matter until he learns the exact grounds behind the Executive Committee’s action.
“From my side, I feel I should not say anything about the work of the Executive Committee. If they feel it is right to remove someone, then what can I say,” he said.
However, he admitted that he was still unaware of the reasons behind the suspension order.
“Till now I do not even know the reason why they removed him. I have not gone to office yet because I was out of station. Once I know the reasons, we will discuss because the Session is also near,” Chyne added.
He also indicated that the issue could be raised during the upcoming KHADC Session.
“We will see in the Session what we will discuss and question,” he said.
Explaining the role of the District Council, Bah Chyne stressed that the KHADC exists to safeguard and preserve the customs, traditions, village administration system and the traditional institutions empowered under the Sixth Schedule.
“The purpose of the District Council is to safeguard and protect. The Council is only the custodian to preserve our customs and traditions, our shnong administration, our clans and our Hima,” he said.
He further stated that whenever disputes or disturbances arise within a Hima, proper legal and administrative procedures must be followed.
“My stand is that if a Syiem acts high-handedly towards the people or does not listen to the Myntri, there is a proper process through which the District Council can take up the matter after receiving complaints. There is hearing, show cause and other procedures,” he said.
Bah Chyne pointed out that there has never been a precedent where the District Council directly removed an elected Syiem chosen through customary election.
“There are processes. But there has never been a time when the District Council directly removes a Syiem who has been duly elected,” he added.
He also differentiated between elected Syiems and acting traditional heads, saying temporary appointments are treated differently.
“But for an elected one, chosen as per custom and tradition, I feel that removal should be avoided,” Chyne said.