Shillong: The Khasi Students’ Union and the Hynniewtrep Youths’ Council slammed Friday's Shree Cement public hearing as a manufactured sham. They accuse the administration of using road blockades, early morning scheduling, and preemptive detentions to kill dissent. Officials held the event at 8:00 AM in Lum Syrman, East Jaintia Hills.
The HYC claims this timing violated the 2006 Environmental Impact Assessment Notification. They argue the session excluded farmers and villagers who could not travel early. The group alleged that police detained opponents starting Thursday evening. Meanwhile, pro-project groups allegedly dug up roads and threw stones at those trying to attend. "A hearing cannot be termed ‘public’ when those most affected are denied the opportunity to participate through intimidation, detention, and physical obstruction," the HYC stated.
KSU President Raymond Kharjana said his union asked for safe passage three days before the hearing. Officials ignored that request. This resulted in a lopsided event where only project supporters gained entry. Kharjana noted, "What we witnessed today was that only those in favour of the project were allowed to be present, whereas those who wanted to raise concerns were stopped on their way."
The KSU demands the removal of the East Jaintia Hills Deputy Commissioner and the Superintendent of Police. Both groups warn that any environmental clearance based on this hearing is legally broken. They promise to pursue other strategies if the state continues to block democratic protest.
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