SHILLONG: In a landmark move towards gender inclusivity, the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) has voiced its support for the induction of women into the executive committees of dorbar shnongs.
Deputy Chief Executive Member, P N Syiem, made it clear after a meeting with the women’s group, Ka Lympung ki Seng Kynthei, that the Council will soon introduce provisions for the inclusion of two women in these executive committees.
This decision by the KHADC follows the demands of the women’s delegation led by the president of the Ka Lympung ki Seng Kynthei, Theilin Phanbuh. They called for the inclusion of at least two women in the ECs of the dorbar shnongs to deliberate and advocate for women-centric issues in society.
Although women are currently restricted from contesting the post of rangbah shnong, certain localities do permit them to participate in these elections. “While the district council has left the decision to allow women in rangbah shnong elections to the individual dorbar shnongs, the KHADC is clear about its stance on inducting two women as members of the executive committee,” Syiem told reporters.
Phanbuh, on her part, clarified that the Lympung’s demand was not about letting women contest for rangbah shnong. Instead, the focus is on their inclusion in the executive committee. “Allowing a woman to voice concerns in the dorbar ensures that societal issues affecting women receive the attention they deserve,” Phanbuh remarked.
She further highlighted that since 2011, the Lympung has been advocating for the district council’s recognition of women’s rights, urging for their active involvement in the executive committees of their respective dorbars.
Concluding her statement, Phanbuh expressed her gratitude, saying, “We deeply appreciate the KHADC’s executive committee for their decision. Their support is crucial in ensuring that the interests of women in society are not just acknowledged, but actively addressed.”
