Shillong, August 05: The Jaiñtia National Council (JNC), Central Executive Committee, Publicity Cell expresses its serious concern over the manner in which the public hearing relating to the proposed Shree Cement project at Elaka Nongkhlieh, East Jaiñtia Hills, was conducted on 31 July 2026, particularly in view of reports of public blockade, the alleged exclusion of affected stakeholders, and complaints regarding the use of excessive force.
The JNC extends its full support to the 15-day ultimatum issued by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) to the Government of Meghalaya, demanding that the public hearing be scrapped and accountability be fixed for the actions and omissions of the authorities concerned.
A statutory public hearing must ensure the free, fair, transparent, and meaningful participation of all affected persons. Where credible allegations indicate that landowners, farmers, residents, and other stakeholders were prevented from participating, and reports suggest that force was used in a manner that undermined public confidence, the credibility and legitimacy of the entire process stand seriously compromised.
Reports following the hearing indicate incidents of tension, the detention of JNC members and the public, allegations of stone-pelting, the reported use of tear gas, damage to vehicles, and allegations concerning the excavation of a Public Works Department (PWD) road resulting in damage to public property.
These allegations warrant an independent, impartial, and transparent inquiry before any further statutory or administrative action is taken. Accordingly, the JNC urges the Government of Meghalaya, the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board, and the District Administration of East Jaiñtia Hills.
The JNC support the KSU demanding to scrap the public hearing conducted on 31 July 2026. Order an independent and impartial inquiry into the reported incidents and allegations. Ensure that no coercive or retaliatory action is taken against peaceful citizens or organisations exercising their lawful rights.
Guarantee that any future public hearing is conducted strictly in accordance with the law, ensuring safe, transparent, and equal participation for all affected stakeholders.
This issue extends beyond a single public hearing. It concerns the integrity of environmental decision-making, the protection of indigenous communities’ rights, adherence to the principles of natural justice, and the State’s duty to uphold transparency, fairness, and public trust.
The JNC sincerely hopes that the Government of Meghalaya will respond positively within the KSU’s ultimatum period by taking appropriate corrective measures to restore public confidence, uphold the rule of law, and safeguard the constitutional and democratic rights of the people of Jaiñtia Hills.
