The Jaiñtia National Council (JNC) and residents of Daištong village and surrounding areas staged a protest outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Khliehriat on December 10. The protest was against the upcoming public hearing for Shree Cement Company, scheduled for December 19, which aims to set up a cement plant in the area. The protesters, armed with black flags and placards, expressed their opposition to the project, citing concerns about pollution, air quality, water resources, and agricultural land.
The proposed cement plant has met with stiff opposition from various pressure groups in the Jaintia region. However, the Dorbar Shnong, a local council, claims that 85% of the villagers support the project and that a No Objection Certificate was issued to Shree Cement. The JNC, on the other hand, opposes the project, alleging that the Land Transfer Act has been violated, and that no permissions were received from the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council. They also claim that the project does not adhere to environmental rules.
JNC president Sambormi Lyngdoh warned that the group will move the Meghalaya High Court if the state government goes ahead with the public hearing. He also threatened civil unrest if the project advances. Lyngdoh pointed out that there is an alleged illegal land purchase by a non-tribal individual, Bharat Sharma, from a tribal landowner, Syrpailang Sukhlain, which is detailed in the company’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report.
The JNC has submitted petitions to the Deputy Commissioner and the district council on the issue but has not received any replies. Lyngdoh stressed that Daistong village depends on agriculture, and setting up a cement plant would affect farmers. The protest reflects the growing concerns of the local community about the potential impact of the cement plant on their environment, livelihood, and way of life. The JNC’s opposition to the project highlights the need for careful consideration and consultation with local stakeholders before proceeding with the project.