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HC issues notice against traditional chief

By Correspondent

SHILLONG, April 24 � Meghalaya High Court has issued a showcause notice to a village Sordar (chief) in East Khasi Hills who defied the Court�s order and reportedly issued residential certificates to villagers.

Justice SR Sen while issuing the showcause notice to Sordar of Wahkhen, Skhembor Khongjirem also asked the Registrar General to file a criminal contempt case against the traditional chief.

�Issue notice to the said Sordar to show cause as to why a contempt proceeding should not be initiated against him. The Registrar General is directed to register a case of Criminal Contempt�, Justice Sen said in the order.

Meghalaya High Court has ruled last year that traditional chiefs in the State have no authority to issue certificates unless empowered by legislations by the Government.

After the order was passed, the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council chief, Adelbert Nongrum questioned the order, which led the Court to issue notice against him. The matter is still pending before a Division bench of the Court after Nongrum�s apology to the Court was not accepted.

The present case relates to a news item in a local daily that said the Wakhen Sordar issued residential certificates to villagers to help them open bank accounts and avail government schemes.

Meanwhile, the High Court has asked the Wakhen Sordar to appear before the Court on Wednesday next week.

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