Shillong, Jul 30: Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong on Thursday defended the public hearing for Shree Cement’s limestone mining project at Lum Syrman in East Jaintia Hills, saying it is a mandatory legal process and not a sign of government approval.
The statement came hours after police fired tear gas and used batons to disperse protesters who had blocked roads leading to the hearing venue.
Tynsong said the government has asked the district administration to be “proactive” in maintaining law and order ahead of Friday’s hearing.
“There is vocal opposition, but also massive demand that the project should come up. It is not only demands for cancellation,” he said.
He stressed that an environmental public hearing is required under the law to record public opinion before any decision. “The law governing environmental clearance is very strong and clear. We cannot bend a single clause,” Tynsong said.
On environmental concerns, he said both the state and central governments are monitoring safeguards.
Tynsong added that several local village committees have sought more cement industries, citing benefits from existing units. “The companies work in tandem with the Dorbar Shnong and contribute to village development programmes,” he said.
On allegations of excessive police force, the Home Minister said he was yet to receive an official report.
