The Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO) has sought clarification from the Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills regarding the construction of a puja pandal on the premises of the Public Works Department (PWD) office in Barik here.
The pressure group asked how a religious event or a public gathering could be given permission to host an event on government land.
“We are not aware of any law or statute that permits public gatherings to be held on government land. If there are such regulations, we kindly request you to provide the relevant section of the law and article,” HITO said. “We want to clarify that we are not against any religious function. We are concerned that if a similar situation arises in the future, the permission to be given to other groups and individuals to host a program or event and the responsible departments should grant the area for our events and agitations.”
