Paul for introduction of Khasi national anthem in KHADC

SHILLONG, MAR 7: Newly elected members of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) today asserted the need to introduce the ‘Khasi national anthem’ in the upcoming session of the Council.

The plea was made during the felicitation ceremony of the newly elected Chairman of the KHADC Pynshngainlang N Syiem here on Thursday.

“The Khasi national anthem ‘Ri Khasi, Ri Khasi’ should be introduced before the start and at the end of the council’s session,” UDP leader and member from Jaiaw Paul Lyngdoh said while congratulating Syiem.

Paul reminded that the Khasi national anthem song is significant in view that the district council was established to preserve and protect the indigenous people.

The UDP leader further opined that taking oath of office by elected representatives of the district council should also be in Khasi.

First time MDC from Mawlai Teiborlang Pathaw on the other hand suggested the need to amend the rules to ensure that administering of oath to elected members should be conducted by a Protem Chairman in the future.

Supporting his view, Congress leader and member from Mylliem Ronnie V Lyngdoh said, “With all due respect to government officers, it does not augur well for elected members to take oath of office administered by a government officer.”

He said as was done in the state Assembly, a protem Chairman should be appointed for the purpose.

While addressing on the occasion, Syiem informed that a proposal for the appointment of a protem Chairman had already been submitted to the Governor for his approval.

“I agree that we should take the initiative to introduce the Khasi national anthem in the Council,” the newly elected Chairman said.

Appealing to the newly elected members to study the provisions of the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution of India, Syiem said, “The Sixth Schedule is a constitution within a constitution. If we do not know how to make use it, it is like ignoring a powerful shield.”

He further stressed on the need to regulate entry of outsiders right from the village level by maintaining the village register.

By Our Reporter