Shillong, July 7: A Jaintia student body has urged a regional rural bank to close its branches for Behdienkhlam Festival, saying it is the “most important religious and cultural festival of the Pnar community.”
In a letter to Meghalaya Rural Bank general manager (In-charge), Jowai & West Jaintia Agglomeration Area, the Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU) Jowai Circle on Tuesday requested “immediate instructions to all Branch Managers… particularly the Jowai and Mihmyntdu branches, to observe the officially declared local holidays on 8th and 9th July 2026 in connection with the celebration of Behdienkhlam Festival 2026.”
“Observing these holidays will demonstrate respect for the traditions, culture, and sentiments of the people of West Jaintia Hills,” the JSU said.
The union also requested that “necessary directions be issued at the earliest so that all concerned branches comply with the official local holiday notification.” “We look forward to your prompt and positive response,” it said, while seeking the bank’s cooperation to ensure the festival is observed without disruption.
