Meghalaya: HITO files complaint against East Jaintia Hills DC, SP over irregularities at cement plant hearing

A public hearing for a proposed cement plant in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district descended into chaos as armed supporters allegedly blocked protesters from attending, prompting rights group Hynniewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO) to seek high-level intervention.

 

The environmental public hearing for Meghatop Cement Pvt Limited's integrated plant project, held at Wahiejer village on October 18, saw protesters being barred from entry by lathi-wielding supporters who had gathered since early morning.

 

HITO has filed complaints with the state's Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and Human Rights Commission, citing "sheer inefficiencies and dereliction of duty" by district officials.

 

"Genuinely affected citizens were not only prevented from participating but were also manhandled and attacked with sticks and bamboos," HITO stated in their complaint. The organisation claims that police personnel and district administration remained "passive observers" throughout the incident.

 

The group specifically called out the Superintendent of Police and Deputy Commissioner of East Jaintia Hills district for failing to maintain law and order during what should have been an open forum for all stakeholders to voice their opinions on the proposed project.

 

HITO has demanded action against these officials, suggesting their inaction may have been driven by "vested interests." The incident raises serious questions about the transparency of environmental public hearings and the role of law enforcement in ensuring fair public participation.