Shillong, Oct 12: The Shillong Mihngi circle of the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has questioned the lack of clarity from the state government on the construction of a place of worship within the premises of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) office at Mawdiangdiang.
In a letter to the Director of Urban Affairs, the union said it had raised the issue during a discussion on August 11 when the department had assured that the matter would be taken seriously and that an inspection would be conducted. However, no detailed clarification has been provided till date.
The KSU said it has serious concerns over the legality and compliance of the construction with applicable rules and regulations.
It said the agreement for the land specifies permission for residential and office complex but the site also includes a place of worship, which raises questions on permissions and conditions.
The KSU also said police authorities have summoned its Shillong Mihngi Circle leaders in connection with the issue. Like is often the case, the KSU took matters into its own hands and padlocked the religious site.
Seeking a fact-based response, the pressure group asked whether the department has conducted the inspection as assured and what its findings are, whether the construction of the place of worship has necessary approval as per agreement and applicable laws, whether approval of the concerned Dorbar Shnong has been obtained, and what legal action the department intends to take if violations are found.
It also sought reasons for the delay in providing clarification.
Speaking to reporters, KSU official Celestine Rynghang said that when the union raised the issue, the CBI staff instigated the police at Mawdiangdiang outpost who instead went after the KSU.
