Guwahati: The Jaintia National Council (JNC) has given the Meghalaya government 10 days to take action on Shree Cement’s proposed 217.394-hectare limestone mining project at Lum Syrman in East Jaiñtia Hills, warning of democratic protests if its concerns are not addressed.
Led by General Secretary Wanshwa Suting, the JNC submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister, raising serious concerns over the proposed project and its potential impact on local landowners and farmers.
The council demanded protection of the customary, possession, cultivation and land rights of people affected in the Sutnga and Nongkhlieh Elakas before any irreversible decision is taken on the project.
It also called for a time-bound and transparent verification of revenue, registration, customary and other records associated with Lum Syrman. The JNC said farmers who have depended on the area for decades for their livelihoods should not be overlooked in the name of mineral development.
The council further demanded that the cultivation rights of affected farmers be protected and that anyone lawfully deprived of land or livelihood receive fair and lawful compensation.
Speaking to reporters, Suting alleged that the state government was favouring cement companies, claiming that local residents were prevented from attending the public hearing held on July 31.
“If the government is confident that everything has been done fairly and transparently, then why should affected landholders face obstacles in exercising their right to participate,” he questioned.
The JNC has also sought a detailed review of the July 31 public hearing, including attendance records, objections, complaints and videographic evidence. It called for a fresh consultation if any procedural shortcomings are found.
The council clarified that its opposition was not directed against development itself, but against what it described as a lack of transparency and protection for affected communities.
“This is a fight for justice, transparency and the rights of the people whose land and livelihood are at stake,” Suting said.
The JNC said it would continue to pursue the matter through lawful and constitutional means and stand with the affected landowners and farmers of Lum Syrman until their concerns are addressed.