Meghalaya Government Awaits Defence Ministry Nod on Harijan Colony Relocation
First Published: 14th November, 2024 20:13 IST
Despite the delay, Dhar confirmed that the state government is preparing to make a final decision on the relocation by the end of this year.
Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister and in charge of Urban Affairs, Sniawbhalang Dhar, said today that the government is still waiting for the Defence Ministry’s response regarding the allocation of land for relocating 342 families from Harijan Colony at Them Iew Mawlong. Despite the delay, Dhar confirmed that the state government is preparing to make a final decision on the relocation by the end of this year.
On October 26, Dhar shared that while groundwork for the relocation has progressed, the government hopes to complete the relocation efforts by late November, with a definitive decision anticipated in December. Initially, the relocation process was postponed after the Harijan Panchayat Committee (HPC) suggested an alternative relocation site on defense land. Although discussions over this land are ongoing, Dhar explained that the government is also prepared to proceed with its existing relocation plan, which sets aside 2–3 acres of state-owned land for the families.
“If defense land is provided, we will consider it to conserve government resources,” Dhar remarked in October 26.
The Harijan Panchayat Committee (HPC) has also expressed strong opposition to any relocation plan that involves demolishing religious structures, particularly the 200-year-old Gurdwara in the colony. Gurjit Singh, HPC Secretary and Gurdwara President, highlighted the religious and cultural significance of these structures, emphasizing that the Sikh community would not tolerate their removal. He warned that any attempt to demolish the Gurdwara could lead to international protests from Sikhs around the world.
The HPC also asserted that they possess legal documents, including a patta (land deed), for the Gurdwara, temples, and schools in the area, reinforcing their opposition to the demolition of these structures. While the HPC has shown willingness to consider relocation for the community, they insist that the Gurdwara and temples remain in their present location.
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