SAINKUR DEWKHAID Vs. KHASI HILLS AUTONOMOUS DISTRICT COUNCIL

JUDGEMENT

(1.) HEARD .

(2.) BY means of this writ petition, the petitioners have sought writ in the nature of mandamus directing the respondents not to hold election in pursuance to Public Notice dated 19.05.2014 for electing Syiem of Malaisohmat Syiemship.

(3.) IT is pointed out on behalf of the petitioners that in the impugned Public Notice dated 19.05.2014 (copy annexure 1 to the writ petition), the Executive Committee of Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong has allowed all the male members of the five villages which are part of the Syiemship to cast their votes in the election to be held for electing Syiem of Malaisohmat Syiemship. It is argued that the election is to be held as per the custom prevailing. It is further submitted that the custom cannot be changed and all the male members of the five villages cannot participate in electing the Syiem.