The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council or KHADC is under pressure from the Hynniewtrep Youth Council-HYC, which has issued a warning to close down the council’s office if it does not act against Resource Rubber Private Limited (RRPL) for operating without a valid trading license.
HYC President Roy Kupar Synrem delivered the ultimatum after meeting with KHADC Executive Member for Trade, Gigur Myrthong. The council has been granted one week to review the documents related to RRPL, located in Mawsmai, Ri-Bhoi.
The dispute centres on RRPL’s alleged non-renewal of its KHADC-issued trading license, which expired in April. According to Synrem, this lapse violates the Trading by Non-Tribals Regulation, 1954, which mandates that non-tribal businesses must hold and maintain valid licenses from the council.
The HYC’s intervention began after they conducted a raid on RRPL, prompted by complaints of illegal operation. Although the group initially shut down the facility, local police reportedly allowed it to reopen.
Synrem expressed frustration with both the KHADC and law enforcement, arguing that their actions contradict regulatory requirements. He questioned how RRPL could continue operations without a valid license.
In response, Myrthong explained that land ownership disputes are complicating the matter. He assured that the Trade Department is currently reviewing the situation and seeking legal advice before taking further action.
The HYC has set a seven-day deadline for KHADC to address the issue, threatening to shut down the council office if no resolution is reached.
