Eighty landowners from Sumer village under the banner of the Joint Action Committee of Land Owners of Shillong Western Bypass (JAC-SWB) have raised strong protest against the alleged claims over land meant for the Shillong Western Bypass project by the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL).
The project aimed at alleviating traffic congestion. However according to the landowners the claims made by the corporation is unwarranted as they have the right to ownership.
Chairman of the committee, Donkupar Sumer said the landowners posses valid documents issued by local authorities and will take legal action against the move.
While appreciating the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and address traffic issues, Sumer made it clear that the protest is solely directed towards the MeECL’s actions.
Tinus Kharsawian, a landowner said she is determined to protect her property rights as the land is duly registered with the authorities.
The committee has urged the government to intervene and protect the interest of the residents. Sumer said they would soon meet the government on the matter and warned of a protest if their issue is not addressed.