‘Number of non-tribal traders increased in Iewduh’
Shillong, Jan 28: The Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) has promised to strengthen the Trading by Non-Tribal Regulation 1954 to thwart influx through trade and commerce, if voted to power in the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) elections.
The party considers Trading by Non-Tribal Regulation 1954 is the “real culprit” against economic growth of tribal people, said party candidate from Sohryngkham, Joseph Pyngrope, after filing nomination papers on Tuesday.
If voted to power, he said, KHAM will take steps within six months to one year to strengthen the provision to address the issue of influx.
Alleging that trade and commerce of tribal people are being snatched away by people from outside, he said, “You will see that the majority of the Khasi traders are sitting on the footpaths while non-tribal traders are occupying the big shops.”
“If KHADC has the power to protect (tribal people) through Trading by Non-Tribal Regulation Act, then it should ensure no license is given in trades where tribal people engage,” he asserted.
Alleging increase in number of non-tribal traders in Iewduh he wondered as who has given them trading licence?
Further, Pyngrope emphasised the importance of supplementing the already existing laws with new legislation for protection of the interest and welfare of the indigenous people.
