Photo Courtesy: nenews
Shillong: The Jaintia National Council is demanding immediate state intervention to shield farmers in Lum Syrman. The group wants the Meghalaya government to act against land loss and intimidation linked to a proposed Shree Cement mining project. Trouble in East Jaintia Hills continues to boil over.
JNC Central Executive Committee president Sambormi Lyngdoh rejected claims made by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma regarding a recent public hearing. Sangma stated the government ordered an inquiry into incidents, including reports that supporters of the company destroyed a Public Works Department road. He also insisted many locals felt satisfied with the hearing process.
The JNC sees it differently. They allege police presence and company-aligned agitators blocked residents from voicing opposition during the meeting. Hundreds of farming families rely on their land in Lum Syrman for survival. The group is now demanding accountability for potential loss of land and livelihoods. They also cited reports of violence and forced occupation of property that the Chief Minister has failed to address.
"The JNC's stand has never been against Shree Cement or any particular company. Our concern is the protection and preservation of the rights of farmers and landowners in Lum Syrman," the organisation stated. The group submitted a formal letter to the Chief Minister on August 13. They have given the government 10 days to offer concrete protections for affected families in the Nongkhlieh area. They warned of mass mobilization if the state stays silent. The JNC claims any company overreach only happens with the backing or inaction of state authorities.
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