Former MLA Ardent M. Basaiawmoit has backed the demand by the UDP for removal of Power Minister James Sangma. He also demanded an independent and impartial inquiry into all the goings on in the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL).
In a statement issued today, Basaiawmoit who is also the convener of Revolution Ïada La Ka Ri said the unpleasant situation in MeECL is now in the public domain.
“We have lately been witnessing strikes, and protests being carried out by the MeECL employees unions. Questions are being asked on the style of functioning of MeECL and its failure was raised by civil societies and even political parties, especially the UDP, a major constituent in the present ruling dispensation,” Basaiawmoit said.
He also said that till the 1990s, energy production had been in surplus, which had enabled the MeECL to sell power to other states.
“However, it is very unfortunate that today, this corporation is debt-ridden. It is no more in a position to generate power to meet even requirements within the State. This has compelled the State government to purchase energy from other companies like the NEEPCO and others,” Basaiawmoit added.
“This speaks volume of the fact that everything is not right in the functioning of MeECL,” he mentioned.
Expressing concern over the blame game between officials of MeECL and the State government for the present crisis in the corporation, Basaiawmoit said that people of the State have the right to know exactly who are responsible for the present mess in MeECL.
“Therefore, it would be proper for the government of the day to conduct an independent and impartial inquiry into all these allegations and counter allegations. Further, for impartial and an independent inquiry to really take place it would be necessary for the incumbent minister of power to step aside,” Basaiawmoit said.
He also endorsed the demand made by UDP general secretary Jemino Mawthoh for the removal of the power minister from the department.
“I would also humbly request Jemino Mawthoh and his party, to seriously pursue this matter to its logical conclusion,” Basaiawmoit said.
