A History of Assam c21.49

c21.49

There are in all twenty-five petty States in the Khāsi hills. Fifteen are presided over by Siems who, though taken always from one family, are chosen by popular election; one is a confederacy under elected officers styled Wāhadadārs; five are under Sardārs, and four under Lyngdohs, both of which offices are entirely elective. The election, however, is subject to ratification by the British Government, and the new chief is required on investiture to confirm the cession to the paramount power of the minerals, elephants, forests and other natural products of his state, on the condition of receiving half the profits accruing from these sources.