Photo Courtesy: nenews
Shillong: The Jaiñtia National Council joined the Khasi Students' Union in demanding the Meghalaya government scrap the July 31 public hearing for a new Shree Cement project. The proposed plant in Elaka Nongkhlieh, East Jaiñtia Hills, sparked significant unrest. The JNC warned that excluding affected stakeholders destroys the legitimacy of the entire process.
Reports show the event devolved into chaos. Authorities allegedly used excessive force, tear gas, and blocked access for locals. Tensions resulted in stone-pelting, damaged vehicles, and the excavation of a PWD road. Police detained several JNC members and civilians during the fallout. The JNC now backs the 15-day ultimatum issued by the KSU for government accountability.
"The JNC extends its full support to the 15-day ultimatum issued by the Khasi Students' Union to the Government of Meghalaya, demanding that the public hearing be scrapped and accountability be fixed for the actions and omissions of the authorities concerned," the organization stated. They insisted that valid environmental decision-making requires transparency and indigenous rights protection.
The group wants an independent, impartial inquiry into the incident. They have urged the state government, the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board, and the East Jaiñtia Hills district administration to stop all administrative actions. The JNC expects corrective steps before the deadline to restore public trust and protect democratic rights.
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