In a renewed contention over the relocation of Harijan Colony settlers in Shillong, the Harijan Panchayat Committee (HPC) has criticized the state government for allegedly lacking commitment to resolving the enduring issue. On Thursday, HPC Secretary Gurjit Singh accused the government of introducing complications by proposing the demolition of a Gurdwara and a temple, hindering the relocation discussions which were nearing resolution. Singh asserted that while the HPC was open to relocation, the introduction of religious structure demolition suggested the government is reluctant to resolve the matter.
Initially, the government proposed relocating 342 families from Them Iew Mawlong to the Shillong Municipal Board premises on Bivar Road, allocating 2.14 acres of additional land next to 1.4 acres already available. However, HPC is demanding 200 square meters per family within the European Ward, outside the Sixth Schedule’s jurisdiction.
In an interim agreement, the government, through a tripartite lease with the Syiem of Hima Mylliem and the Shillong Municipal Board, acquired 12,444.13 square meters in Harijan Colony for a one-time payment of Rs 2 crore. This deal was finalized in March 2021.
Recently, Chief Secretary DP Wahlang revealed that the state is contemplating a new plan to allot land adjacent to Harijan Colony for relocation. A formal request has been sent to the Defence Secretary, and a high-level meeting between Meghalaya’s Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and the Union Defence Minister is anticipated.
The call for relocation intensified following violent clashes in 2018. A High-level Committee established by the state government subsequently recommended the relocation after scrutinizing the situation. The evolving dynamics indicate ongoing negotiations and the need for collaborative efforts to address the sensitive issue whilst respecting community sentiments and legal frameworks.
Original Story https://theshillongtimes.com/2024/10/11/relocation-issue-lingers-stakeholders-blame-govt/
Category : MEGHALAYA
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