The forest check gate of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) is reportedly collecting illegal tax for goods not authorised to assess.
This was stated by the Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO) after its members led by the Mawryngkneng circle visited the forest check gate at Puriang today.
The group stated that during their interaction with drivers they were informed that a pickup truck transporting charcoal was reportedly charged Rs 5,000 by individuals, not in uniform and after passing through the gate.
In a video released to the media, HITO members claimed that illegal collection fees at Puriang range from Rs 5,000 to Rs 30,000 for vehicles carrying various goods.
“We are uncertain if the forest gate at Puriang falls under the old KHADC executive committee or the new one, but we demand that the KHADC takes action against such illegal activities, as this directly impacts the earnings of the public,” HITO stated.
They also noted that the forest officer is rarely seen at the check gate, and the staff are often not in uniform.
Meanwhile, president of HITO Donbok Dkhar said that the organisation will meet the KHADC EM in charge tomorrow to seek clarification on the matter.
