Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), Winston Tony Lyngdoh, has clarified that the proposed online system for trading licences will be restricted to renewals, while fresh applicants will still be required to submit their applications in person at the Council office.
The clarification was made during the Question Hour of the KHADC Budget Session on Thursday.
Responding to queries from members, Lyngdoh said the Council is exploring ways to introduce online services for the renewal of trading licences and digital payment facilities to make the process more convenient. However, he stressed that all new applications for trading licences will continue to be processed through the existing offline system.
Leader of the Opposition, Titosstarwell Chyne, expressed concern over the move to introduce an online trading licence system. He noted that the issue of granting licences to non-tribal traders has long been a sensitive matter and cautioned that allowing online applications could make it easier for traders from outside the state to seek licences.
Supporting the discussion, Laban-Mawprem MDC Ricky Shullai said many traders have been seeking a digital system, particularly for licence renewals. At the same time, he urged the Council to strengthen enforcement mechanisms and ensure the involvement of local Dorbar Shnongs during licence inspections and verification processes.
