Shillong: The Harijan Panchayat Committee (HPC) has requested an extension until September from the Meghalaya government to provide their final decision on the proposed relocation from Them Iew Mawlong to Bishop Cotton Road in Shillong.
This request comes after an August 10 meeting between the government and the HPC, during which it was agreed that the HPC would deliver its decision within 15 days. However, the HPC has stated that this timeframe is insufficient for them to consult with the highest authorities of the Sikh community.
In a statement, Gurjit Singh, Secretary of the Harijan Panchayat Committee, emphasized the need for thorough consultations with key Sikh religious and community leaders. “We intend to seek the counsel of the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee in Amritsar, the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee, and other senior community organizations and leaders. Their guidance is crucial,” Singh stated.
He further explained that due to existing engagements and prior commitments, the Sikh religious leadership has indicated they will not be available for consultations for the next two to three weeks.
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Given these circumstances, the HPC has suggested that the next meeting on this matter be scheduled around the last week of September. The Committee is hopeful that by then, they will be able to present a well-considered response that reflects the consensus of the broader community.
The Harijan Panchayat Committee has sought the cooperation of the Government of Meghalaya in accommodating this request.
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