Opposition against the proposed Shree Cement plant intensified as members of the Jaintia National Council (JNC) and Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU) staged a protest during the public hearing, alleging that the process was not being conducted in a fair and transparent manner. The organizations also raised serious concerns over the land acquisition linked to the proposed project, claiming that the land was allegedly purchased by a non-tribal individual, which they said violates the rules and provisions of the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC).
Protesters argued that such transactions go against the protections meant for tribal land in the region. The demonstrators further warned that the cement plant could lead to several long-term environmental and social problems, including pollution, damage to water sources, destruction of agricultural land, and adverse impacts on the health and livelihood of local residents.
Speaking to the media, JSU General Secretary Neilkeel Mukhim said that the public hearing failed to reflect the genuine concerns of the people and questioned the legality of the land ownership involved in the project. He stated that the people of the region would continue to oppose any project that threatens tribal land rights and the environment. Protesters demanded that the authorities halt the process until all legal and environmental concerns raised by local organizations and residents are properly addressed.