Kharlukhi’s book ‘Political Development in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya (1835-1972)’ released
Shillong, Feb 23: J.B. Bhattacharjee, retired professor of NEHU and former VC of Assam University, released Dr Wanwei Roy Kharlukhi’s book “Political Development in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya (1835-1972)” in the presence of professors LS Gassah and David Syiemlieh and others.
The book examines the political shifts and cultural resilience in the Jaintia Hills region, now an integral part of Meghalaya.
This publication marks the fulfilment of a long-held ambition to document the region’s rich political history over the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.
The book of Rajya Sabha member Kharlukhi, who is well versed in the area’s history, provides a meticulous examination of the Jaintia Hills’ political landscape, tracing its evolution from pre-British times through to the formation of Meghalaya. It explores the enduring quest of the Jaintia people to uphold their rights amidst the tides of political and administrative changes brought on by both colonial and post-colonial governance.
The narrative delves into the intricate dynamics of Jaintia-Anglo relations, highlighting the pivotal moment of the Jaintia kingdom’s annexation by British forces in 1835. It scrutinizes the subsequent shifts in traditional social and political institutions and their interactions with British authority, with a particular focus on the Anglo-Jaintia resistance movement of the 1860s.
The book also sheds light on the burgeoning political and social awareness spurred by external influences, leading to the formation of pivotal social entities such as the Jaintia Durbar. The later chapters detail the concerted efforts of Jaintia leaders and communities advocating for the establishment of a distinct hill state and the creation of an Autonomous District Council.
“Political Development in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya (1835-1972)” is an essential read for historians, political scholars, and anyone interested in the intricate tapestry of Northeast India’s political heritage. It serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Jaintia Hills’ communities through centuries of change.
The book is available for purchase at major bookstores and online platforms. For more information on the book can contact:
Astral International Pvt Ltd.,
4736/23, Ansari Road, Darya Ganj, Delhi – 110002. www.astralint.com ISBN: 9789359193236 | Year: 2024 | Price: 1195 | Binding: Hardback
The author
Dr. Wanwei Roy Kharlukhi finished his degree from St. Anthony’s College and continued with his Masters in North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong.
Thereafter he pursued his teaching career as a Lecturer in History in Synod College and simultaneously completed his Ph.D. He presently stays in Shillong with his family. Presently, he is the Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) from tl Meghalaya since June 2020. He has also been Member, Parliamentary Standing Committee on Rural Development (2020-2022) and currently he is Member, Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs.
