Leader of the Opposition in the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), Titosstarwell Chyne, has said that the Council must adopt a balanced approach in its decision to deny a trading licence to Blinkit, stressing that policies should keep pace with changing times.
Speaking on the issue, Chyne acknowledged the need to protect indigenous traders but maintained that consumers should also have the freedom to choose where they want to shop. He said Meghalaya cannot ignore evolving market trends, noting that online commerce has become an integral part of people’s daily lives. “If Blinkit is being denied permission, then the same standard should be applied to others as well, and not just Blinkit,” he said.
The KHADC Executive Committee recently refused to grant a trading licence to Blinkit. Chief Executive Member Winston Tony Lyngdoh had defended the decision, arguing that allowing the quick-commerce platform to operate would threaten the livelihoods of thousands of local traders.
On a separate issue, Chyne clarified that the Khasi Hills Autonomous District (Trading by Non-Tribals) (Amendment) Bill, 2026 is intended to regulate non-tribals and migrant labourers, and not those engaged in trade.
He said the KHADC introduced the Bill after it lost the authority to issue labour licences following amendments made by the state government to the State Labour Act. Chyne expressed hope that the Governor would grant assent to the legislation.
His remarks come after state cabinet minister Sanbor Shullai lodged a complaint with the Governor against the Bill passed by the KHADC, alleging that it exceeds the constitutional powers of the autonomous district council.
