Raphael Warjri

The Synjuk Ki Rangbah Kur Ka Bri U Hynñiewtrep, the confederation of clan elders in Khasi society, on Saturday 20^th July 2024 convened a significant meeting at the Dorbar House of Iew Mulong, Marngar. This gathering was pivotal as it marked the establishment of new units across the Khasi Jaintia Hills region. Specifically, the focus was on inaugurating the Ri Bhoi unit, complete with the appointment of its office bearers, who were elected by clans from the Ri Bhoi area.

In the morning session, the council saw the election of key figures to guide the Ri Bhoi unit. Notable appointments included Donbok Khymdeit and Ploster Syiem as advisers, Bah R Rang Kynsai Makdoh as President, Bah Coming Marsing as Vice President, Rudolf Born Makri as Secretary, Biolking Tmung and Bah Biestar Sylliang as Joint Secretaries, and R. Brister Shadap as the Treasurer. Additionally, a diverse group of executive members was selected to support the unit's operations. They are Bah Phrangsngi Syngkli, Bah Nolkin Tron, Bah Bres Dorphang, Bah Mawshanlang Pamshong, Bah Treibor Nongrang, Bah Chesterfield Umbah, Bah Kwidersing Syiemlieh, Bah Thle Lyngdoh Myrdon, Bah Jrit Sohkktung, Bah Bris Kleiñ, Bah Joplin Tyngsang, Bah Twingstar Domblong, Bah Washingto9n Shylla, Bah Joplin Sten, Bah Gershon Kynru, Bah Michael Binong, Bah Shanbor Sohkhwai, Bah Esli Phangcho, Bah Niren Pambah, Bah Nekshon Nongkoum, Bah Jeffrey Dorphang, Bah Ningstar Syntem, Bah Robert Narlong, and Bah Babul Pator.

Following the confirmation ceremony, the afternoon session delved into substantive discussions led by esteemed elders. These discussions primarily centered on the matrilineal clan lineage system—a cornerstone of Khasi society since ancient times. The Ri Bhoi unit had diligently gathered and presented crucial data pertaining to the matrilineal clans in the region, showcasing participation from approximately thirty-four clans during the council.

Key figures who addressed the assembly included R L Kharpran, President; Erwin Khnong Syiem Sutnga, Spokesperson; and representatives from both the Ri Bhoi Unit and the Jaintia Unit such as R Rangkynsai Makdoh, R B Shadap, and D Donstan Khonglah. Together, they deliberated on upholding the matrilineal system and discussed various cultural traditions, notably focusing on the integration of the Karbi people into Khasi society. They highlighted the enduring relationships fostered over centuries, particularly during events like the annual Nongkrem dance festival at Hima Khyrim.

A significant aspect of the meeting addressed the assimilation of diverse communities within Khasi society, extending hospitality to Khasi clan members residing in neighboring northeastern states, the Barak Valley of Assam, and even across international borders into Bangladesh. This inclusive approach aims to strengthen ties with the broader ethnic Khasi community across the surrounding regions.

In essence, the gathering not only formalized the Ri Bhoi unit of the confederation but also reaffirmed the commitment to Khasi traditions, cultural preservation, and inter-community harmony within the dynamic socio-cultural landscape of the Khasi Jaintia Hills.