UKHRUL: The Jaintia National Council (JNC)on Monday resolved to launch a mass agitation against the proposed Shree Cement Integrated Cement Plant at Daistong village.
The decision was taken in a virtual meeting of the Central Executive Committee (CEC) of the JNC after the alleged continued government silence regarding multiple complaints related to alleged illegal transfer of tribal land.
Speaking in a video statement shortly after the meeting, JNC president Sambormi Lyngdoh said, “Today, the Jaintia National Council Central Executive Committee held an urgent meeting and have come to one clear decision: As we warned earlier, if there is no response from the government after our submitted complaints, we will not sit idle with folded hands.”
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Outlining the series of communications sent to various government offices over the past weeks, the president said that a formal complaint was submitted to the Deputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills on November 28. On December 3, an urgent clarification letter was issued to the Chief Executive Member (CEM), JHADC and on December 4, a detailed complaint was forwarded to the Commissioner of Land Revenue, Shillong. However, there has been no response from any authority till date, Lyngdoh said.
The JNC has announced a major public demonstration on December 10 at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office premises in Khliehriat. The agitation will include placards, speeches, and a mass gathering of supporters.
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Issuing a strong and heartfelt message, the JNC president urged residents of the concerned areas, especially the people of Daistong and nearby communities affected by the Shree Cement proposal, not to fear or feel uncomfortable.
“JNC stands firmly with you. Come join us on December 10,” the JNC president said.
He also appealed to the wider public across East Jaintia Hills to refrain from blaming others or voicing concerns solely on social media.
“Show your love for our land, not just online. Step up and support this vital issue that impacts our community, our land, and our future,” the JNC president added.
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