Shillong: The Annual Assembly of the Syiem Sutnga Clan, along with its exogamous group of fourteen clans, collectively known as Khatsaw Khnong, was held on January 30th, 2025, at Madankynsaw, Mookyndeng, in the East Jaintia Hills.
The event drew thousands of clan members from all over Khasi and Jaintia Hills who gathered to engage in deliberations on various matters related to the welfare and cultural preservation of the clan. Some of the exogamous clans are Saio, Stui, Samaiang, Pajuh, Pakem, Passah, Salahe, Law, Shadap, Pasleiñ and few others including the Syiemlieh and Syiemiong clans of the Nongkhlaw, Nongspung provinces.
Among the highlights of the gathering was a significant address by eminent advocate Erwin Khnong Syiem Sutnga. He made a compelling historical articulation regarding the colonial oppression endured by the Jaintia people. Erwin Syiem Sutnga shared his initiative to formally request reparations for the atrocities committed by the British colonial regime nearly two centuries ago.
In 1835, the Jaintia Kingdom was invaded and annexed by the British, which led to the forfeiture of the royal family’s authority. The situation worsened in 1862 when the British government imposed harsh laws, including a house tax, which sparked unrest among the residents of the Jaintia Hills. This led to a resistance movement, famously led by Kiang Nangbah, who was captured and executed by hanging in a public spectacle. Erwin Syiem Sutnga, in his assessment of the historical injustices, stated that the estimated loss of property and resources during these oppressive years amounted to over two lakh crore rupees.
During his address, Erwin Khnong Syiem Sutnga informed the gathering that the preparation for seeking justice and reparations is being made in full accordance with the legal framework. He emphasized that the efforts are grounded in the constitutional provisions of India, particularly the Sixth Schedule, and extend to the various levels of the judiciary, including the Supreme Court of India. Furthermore, he highlighted that the legal course of action could potentially be pursued on an international scale, referencing the possibility of taking the matter to the International Court of Justice. This step, he clarified, is being undertaken to ensure that the pursuit of justice for the historical wrongs committed against the Jaintia people follows due legal processes and adheres to the highest legal standards both within the country and internationally.
In response, he petitioned the British government, demanding both compensation for the losses incurred and a formal apology for the human rights violations committed during the colonial period. His call for justice not only seeks to address the past but also to raise awareness of the historical struggles faced by the Jaintia people.
Further emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation, Erwin Syiem Sutnga urged the clan members to actively uphold the matrilineal tradition that defines their society. He called on them to propagate the importance of maintaining this cultural practice, stressing that it is crucial for the future generations to understand and cherish their heritage.
Erwin also appealed to the attendees to approach the upcoming elections for the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council with discernment and care. He encouraged the clan members to elect candidates who possess not only the necessary knowledge and skills but also a genuine concern for the cultural heritage and well-being of the people. As part of the programme, some of the meritorious individuals who have excelled in their career were felicitated with mementos.
The assembly was marked by vibrant cultural performances, which served both to celebrate and preserve the rich traditions of the Jaintia people. As the event came to a close, President Ransom Sutnga symbolically unfurled the clan flag, followed by traditional dances performed by all those in attendance, marking the end of a momentous and culturally rich gathering.
