By Raphael Warjri

The provincial council, or Dorbar Hima, is composed of representatives from the territorial councils and is headed by the chieftain, or ‘Syiem.’ The provincial structure also includes a Lyngdoh for religious duties, supported by subordinates such as ‘Sohblei’ and political officials like ‘Lyngskor’ (deputy chief), ‘Basan,’ and other functionaries who serve various roles, including messengers (‘Sangot’) and official minstrels (‘Duhalia’).

A key feature of the Khasi folk democratic system is its egalitarian nature, applicable at all administrative levels. The Syiem serves as the titular head within the community assembly, or Dorbar Hima, and is endorsed by the executive council, known as Dorbar Bakhraw. The title ‘U Syiem U Mraw’ conveys the idea that the chief is both a

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