Nongpoh, June, 30: The Committee on Petitions of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, in collaboration with the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Ri Bhoi District, conducted an Awareness Programme with Block Development Officers (BDOs), Self Help Groups (SHGs), and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) of the district on Monday at Nongpoh.
The programme was chaired by Brightstarwell Marbaniang, MLA (Mawlai), Acting Chairman of the Committee, in the absence of Chairman Pongseng Marak, MLA (Bajengdoba). Committee members present included Remington Gabil Momin, MLA (Rambrai-Jyrngam), Charles Marngar, MLA (Mawhati), and Dr. Mizanur Rahman Kazi, MLA (Rajabala). Also in attendance was Mayralborn Syiem, MLA (Nongpoh), alongside Abhilash Baranwal, Deputy Commissioner of Ri Bhoi District.
All four BDOs of Ri Bhoi District were present at the programme, which aimed to raise awareness about the roles and responsibilities of the Committee on Petitions and its function as a vital link between citizens and the Legislative Assembly.
In his keynote address, Acting Chairman Brightstarwell Marbaniang expressed enthusiasm in engaging directly with the community and emphasized the importance of legislative awareness.
“The Petition Committee serves as a platform for citizens to voice their concerns and grievances to the Legislative Assembly. Many are aware of the three pillars of governance—Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary—and today we are here to highlight how the Legislature, through various committees like the Petition Committee, ensures accountability and public engagement.”
Committee member Charles Marngar, MLA (Mawhati), elaborated on the Committee’s mandate and encouraged SHGs and NGOs to actively bring forward issues and concerns for the Committee to address in the Assembly.
Remington Gabil Momin, MLA (Rambrai-Jyrngam), called upon citizens to collaborate for community development.
“We urge the SHGs and NGOs to bring their grievances to us. The Committee is here to take them forward to the Assembly. We also encourage educated individuals to help the marginalized and make use of the petitioning process.”
Dr. Mizanur Rahman Kazi, MLA (Rajabala), underlined the historical significance and purpose of the Committee:
“The Petition Committee is one of the oldest and most important Committees in the Legislature. It acts as a bridge between the people and the lawmakers. Our visit today is to help you understand how to effectively use this mechanism to address your issues.”
Local MLA Mayralborn Syiem welcomed the initiative and thanked the Committee for holding the programme in Nongpoh.
“Many may not have been aware of this Committee and its function. I urge the people of Nongpoh and Ri Bhoi to make the most of this opportunity and come forward with their concerns, so the Committee can take them up with the Government.”
Participants from various SHGs expressed appreciation for the initiative and shared their views and challenges, acknowledging the opportunity to directly engage with the Committee and seek redressal for their concerns.
