SHILLONG: The Executive Committee (EC) of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) has intensified its enforcement drive against unauthorized commercial establishments operating without valid Trading Licences across its jurisdiction.
During a session of the Council on Thursday, Chief Executive Member (CEM) and Executive Member (EM) In-Charge of Trade, Winston Tony Lyngdoh, informed the House that 46 cases of trade law violations have been detected following extensive inspections.
Providing details of the crackdown, the CEM outlined the actions taken in major localities. In Laban, three shops were sealed for failing to produce mandatory documents; in Dhankheti, four travel agencies were shut down. The CEM noted that these agencies have since been taken over by local operators and in Fire Brigade Area, a hub operated by quick-commerce platform Blinkit was ordered to close after being found without a valid Trading Licence issued by the Council.
“The Executive Committee is currently investigating several other companies. A grace period has been granted to regularise documentation. Failure to comply will result in complete shutdown of operations,” Lyngdoh stated.
To improve enforcement at the grassroots level, the KHADC had earlier issued a notification to all Dorbar Shnong on April 10, 2025. The directive instructed local authorities to remain vigilant and ensure that non-tribal individuals do not engage in business or trade without obtaining proper permits from the Council.
The move aims to strengthen compliance with traditional governance systems and safeguard indigenous economic interests.
The session also deliberated on issues related to leasing of community land to government departments and external agencies.
EM In-Charge of Land, Powell Sohklet, clarified that under existing laws Dorbar Shnong cannot independently lease community land without prior approval and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the KHADC, adding that any such agreement without Council consent is considered invalid.
He further acknowledged gaps in the present legal framework regarding penalties for erring shnong authorities. To address this, the Council plans to review and amend the Land Act by introducing stricter provisions to protect indigenous land rights.
The KHADC leadership reiterated its commitment to ensuring lawful business practices and safeguarding traditional land ownership systems. The ongoing drive, officials said, is aimed at promoting transparency, protecting tribal rights, and maintaining regulatory discipline across Khasi Hills.
