Decision on Harijan Colony Relocation Expected by December: Deputy CM Dhar
First Published: 26th October, 2024 18:06 IST
The relocation plan was previously delayed following a request from the HPC, which proposed an alternative relocation to defense land.
Meghalaya’s Deputy Chief Minister for Urban Affairs, Sniawbhalang Dhar, has informed that the state government aims to finalize its decision on relocating 342 families from Harijan Colony in Them Iew Mawlong by the end of this year. With groundwork in place, Dhar shared that relocation efforts could conclude by late November, though a final decision is anticipated by December.
The relocation plan was previously delayed following a request from the Harijan Panchayat Committee (HPC), which proposed an alternative relocation to defense land. Dhar indicated that while discussions regarding defense land are ongoing, the government is prepared to proceed with the existing blueprint, which designates 2–3 acres of government-owned land for the relocation.
“If defense land becomes available, we will consider it as a way to preserve government resources,” Dhar stated, adding that the government remains ready to proceed with its own designated land if necessary.
Meanwhile, the Harijan Panchayat Committee (HPC) voiced strong objections to any plans that would involve demolishing religious institutions, particularly the 200-year-old Gurdwara, in connection with the relocation.
Gurjit Singh, HPC Secretary and Gurdwara President, emphasized the historical and cultural significance of these religious structures, asserting that the Sikh community would not accept their removal. Singh warned that any attempt to demolish the Gurdwara could provoke international protests from Sikhs worldwide.
The HPC further claims to hold legal documentation, including a patta, for the Gurdwara, temples, and schools in the area, which strengthens its stance against the demolition of these structures. While the HPC has shown willingness to consider the relocation of the community, they maintain that the Gurdwara and temples must remain in their current location.
Also Read : Shillong MP Ricky AJ Syngkon to Push for Inner Line Permit Implementation in Meghalaya
Also Watch:
COMMENTS
TOPMOST STORY NOW
Live Brother of BSF Jawan Deepak Chingakham Who Died in Cross-Border Firing by Pakistan in Jammu Appointed ASI in Manipur Police on Compassionate Grounds
11th July 2025
Live Maikhuli Villagers Protest MoU Over Assam-Meghalaya Border, Demand Return of Fishery
11th July 2025
Live Chhangur Baba Received Rs 500 Crore in Foreign Funds for Illegal Conversions: Anti-Terror Squad
11th July 2025
Live Taiwan Detects 9 Chinese Warships, 1 Aircraft Breaching ADIZ Amid Rising Tensions
11th July 2025
WE RECOMMEND
Maikhuli Villagers Protest MoU Over Assam-Meghalaya Border, Demand Return of Fishery
At the heart of the protest lies the contentious inclusion of the village's long-maintained fishery within Assam’s territory under the MoU.
11th July 2025
Shubhanshu Shukla Speaks to Students from Assam and Meghalaya from Space, Tells Them He Will Guide Them To Become Astronauts, Walk on the Moon
The Indian astronaut connected with the students using amateur (Ham) radio, making it a rare and inspiring moment.
11th July 2025
Shillong Cantonment to Finally Get Building Bye-Laws After 53 Years; Draft Sent to Defence Ministry for Approval
As per the approved draft, residential buildings along motorable roads can go up to Ground plus 3 (G+3) floors.
11th July 2025
Centre Sanctions Rs 1,066 Cr For Flood And Landslide Hit Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya and Mizoram
These states have experienced heavy rainfall, massive flooding, and multiple landslides during this monsoon season.
10th July 2025
Shillong Gets Its First Mall: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Inaugurates Rs 100 Cr Polo Commercial Complex
Meghalaya: Rooftop solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems further underline the eco-conscious vision of the project.
10th July 2025