By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) has approved an amendment to its long-standing regulations governing non-tribal participation in trade and business, introducing stricter licensing requirements for non-tribal workers employed across the district.
The Khasi Hills Autonomous District (Trading by Non-Tribals) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was passed during the concluding day of the Council’s Summer Session. The legislation seeks to update provisions under the United Khasi-Jaintia Hills Autonomous District (Trading by Non-Tribals) Regulation, 1954, which has been in force for more than seven decades.
Under the amended framework, employers will be required to secure a Non-Tribal Employee’s Service Licence for every non-tribal employee or agent engaged in commercial activities. The licence must be obtained within 30 days of a person’s appointment.
The Bill formally introduces the concept of a Non-Tribal Employee’s Service Licence, aimed at regulating the engagement of non-tribal personnel in businesses operating within the Khasi Hills region.
To obtain the licence, applicants must submit prescribed documents, including voter identification, photographs, proof of permanent residence and a recommendation from the relevant village headman. Authorities have been directed to examine applications within a week and complete the approval process within 30 days.
The legislation also creates a structured grievance redressal mechanism. Applicants dissatisfied with a decision of the Licensing Officer may approach the concerned Executive Member, while a second appeal can be made before the Executive Committee.
Licences issued under the new system will remain valid for one year. Failure to seek renewal within 30 days after expiry will lead to automatic cancellation.
To strengthen enforcement, designated Council officials have been authorised to conduct inspections of business establishments and verify compliance with licensing requirements. Officers carrying out such checks must identify themselves and present written authorisation before exercising their powers.
The amendment further removes provisions that overlapped with the Labour Clearance Certificate (LCC) regime administered by the state government, following consultations between the Council and state authorities.
Chief Executive Member Winston Tony Lyngdoh said the proposed legislation had initially been scheduled for introduction in an earlier session but was deferred following the death of Shillong MP Ricky A.J. Syngkon.
The Bill will now be sent to the Governor through the District Council Affairs Department for assent before it can be brought into effect.