DC Ri Bhoi clarifies: Gate shut as per law and KHADC rule

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 21, 2025

A day after two Executive Members (EMs) of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) accused the Ri Bhoi District Administration of disrespecting the Council by shutting down the KHADC check gate at Umdihar, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Ri Bhoi District, Abhilash Baranwal, clarified that the closure was carried out in accordance with legal provisions and not out of any disregard for the Council.

Responding to the statements made by EMs Powell Sohkhlet and Bah Winston Tony Lyngdoh, who termed the closure as “insulting,” Baranwal told reporters today that the action was taken based on clear instructions from the government and in consultation with the KHADC itself.

“We have the highest regard for KHADC. It is a Sixth Schedule Council, and there is no question of disrespecting it,” the DC said.

He further cited clause 6 of KHADC’s own work order issued to the agent, which clearly states that such check gates are not permitted to be set up along the National Highway. “Even in their own work order, it is mentioned that it cannot be on the highway,” he added.

Baranwal also referred to a standing instruction issued by the Government of Meghalaya in 2021, arrived at in consultation with the KHADC, which prohibits the setting up of toll or check gates along State PWD roads or National Highways.

“This is why the gate was closed down. Otherwise, there is no intention of disrespecting KHADC,” he reiterated.

The DC pointed out that in the past two months, KHADC and Hima Mylliem have set up nearly eight to ten check gates in the region, none of which have been touched by the district administration. “We have not closed down anything else except the one that was set up on the National Highway in violation of their own order,” he clarified.