SHILLONG, AUG 19: KHADC Opposition Leader Titostarwell Chyne on Wednesday accused the VPP-led Executive Committee of failing to address the crisis in Hima Langrin, saying the Council’s silence has forced people to take to the streets and is hurting the institution’s credibility.
Speaking to reporters, Chyne said residents of Hima Langrin once again marched to the KHADC office after their 15-day ultimatum to the Council seeking the removal of Syiem Nangteising Syiemiong went unanswered.
“I saw on social media that people from Hima Langrin are marching again, but I don’t know the reason. However, from what I have seen in the news reports, it is because the people of Hima Langrin are unhappy regarding the re-appointment of the Syiem and the entire Hima Langrin,” he said.
Targeting the CEM and EMs, Chyne said the Executive Committee should have stepped in much earlier to mediate between the two sides.
“From my side, I feel that it is unfortunate that the people have to come all the way to the District Council. And on the part of the EC, it should have already resolved this matter among the leaders of both sides to bring peace between them,” he stated.
He cautioned that prolonged inaction would undermine the Council’s role as custodian of the traditional system.
“Because if this continues, it will greatly affect the District Council, especially since the Council itself is supposed to uphold and strengthen the traditional system. But if it is like this, it will be a matter of concern and unfortunate, and it will lower the credibility of the District Council,” Chyne said.
The UDP leader suggested immediate steps to de-escalate the situation.
“My suggestion is that the CEM and EMs should explain to the public what they are doing so that the people are clear. And if they are still not understood or satisfied, there are other ways that can be taken. But the most important thing is that the Council should take steps to call both sides and correct the mistakes,” he said.
“Because if the people are coming out, it means there is dissatisfaction, which means there are things that are wrong. And if there are wrongs, these should be corrected,” Chyne added..
