Shillong: The East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner convened a meeting on Wednesday with the Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC), the CEO of the Shillong Cantonment Board, and the Superintendent of Police of the district to address concerns regarding the eviction drive conducted by HYC on May 23.
During the meeting, HYC raised questions about the delay in evicting 82 to 100 households they believe to be illegal settlers.
HYC President Roy Synrem questioned why the Estate Officer had not taken action under the Public Premises Eviction Act, noting that no lease agreements had been issued to these households.
Officials informed HYC that a stay order from the District and Sessions Court in Shillong has halted the eviction of the entire 0.248-acre plot at Lum Survey. However, Synrem pointed out that the court case involves only three individuals who own businesses in the area, questioning why action has not been taken against the remaining illegal settlers.
The court order covered the whole area, so it was informed that no steps were taken to evict them. He added that officials are confident the court order will be in their favor on August 19, after which eviction steps will be taken.
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HYC expressed their frustration with the delays and warned that if the Defense Estate Officer fails to clear the land by August 19, they will take further action. “We will repeat what was done on May 23 or take other steps to ensure this place will not be a hub of illegal activities in Meghalaya,” Synrem warned.
It was noted that cases have been filed against HYC leaders for the May 23 eviction drive, with several legal restrictions imposed on their entry into the Lum Survey area. Synrem stated that HYC’s drastic actions were compelled by their stance against the drug menace in the city, alleging that the Lum Survey area is a hub for illegal activities and drug distribution in Shillong and beyond.
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