Shillong July 11: Organisations including the KSU, FKJGP, CSWO, KWADA, HNYF, TUR among others have called for an open public debate with the Minister of Urban Affairs on the New Shillong Township and request her to arrange a time and place at her convenience.
The minister appears confused and ill informed and yet is trying to justify the forceful land acquisition for the New Shillong Township. In the press released said “We on our part with a firm and clear resolve will continue to oppose this anti-people project which will alienate us from our land, take away our freedom and usher in a new age form of slavery”.
The NGO’s said that the intentions of the minister and the government is in gross violation of customary laws and practices which are protected under the constitution and we will not allow this abuse and exploitation in the name of development.
The NGO’s said that “We therefore urge her along with her Commissioner Secretary and other officials to take part in an open public debate on this issue which should be publicly televised such that the people will receive clear and certain information on the New Shillong Township.
If the government’s intentions are transparent and truly in the interest of the people they will not turn down this invitation to a public debate that can provide clarity for the public.(SP News)
