Speaking to the media following a peaceful sit-in demonstration in Khliehriat today, Shri Wanshwa Suting, General Secretary of the Jaiñtia National Council (JNC), Central Executive Committee, strongly condemned the alleged use of force and restrictions imposed on members of the public in connection with the public hearing for the proposed Shree Cement mining project at Lum Syrman, East Jaiñtia Hills.
The JNC stated that every affected person has the right to attend a public hearing and freely express their views, concerns, objections, as This right is also recognised administered by the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board.
Shri Suting further expressed serious concern over reports of the digging of a PWD road by alleged supporters of Shree Cement, vandalism of public vehicles, and the deployment and use of police personnel against members of the public on the day of the hearing.
The JNC termed the lack of visible action by the Government against these alleged incidents deeply disappointing and said it creates a public perception that the State Government is favouring the company over the interests, safety, and rights of the people.
“The Government must not use force or administrative restrictions against its own people without first listening to their voices,” Shri Suting said. “The people of Sutnga and Nongkhlieh must be allowed to participate freely in matters that directly affect their land, environment, livelihoods, and future.”
The JNC also reiterated the urgent need for the Government to resolve the land-related issues involving Elaka Sutnga and Elaka Nongkhlieh before moving forward with any process connected to the project.
The organisation stated that it had previously written to the Government seeking an early and peaceful resolution of the matter and has given 10 days for a concrete response and action.
Failure by the Government to address the concerns within the stipulated period, the JNC warned, will compel the organisation and the concerned groups to undertake further lawful and democratic mass agitations across East Jaiñtia Hills District.