Shillong, Apr 8: The recent announcement by the state government to transfer the management of the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL) to the SAI Company in Mawsynram has sparked concerns among local residents.
According to the Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO), this decision follows troubling incidents involving the Fedco Company, which failed to remit ₹40 crores in electricity bill payments collected from about 18,000 households.
Residents are worried about the effectiveness and accountability of private entities managing essential public services.
HITO Southern Border secretary Risingstar Marweiñ stated many residents are questioning whether a thorough risk assessment was conducted prior to this significant management shift.
Expressing dissatisfaction over the government’s choice HITO advocated for the return of control to MeECL, which they believe has the capability and resources to manage energy operations efficiently. “The transfer of these vital operations raises critical questions regarding the role of engineering officials in this decision-making process and the underlying motivations driving this shift,” he said.
The organisation said a meeting with the Power Minister was held on June 22, 2025 when community leaders have urged immediate action, including filing a First Information Report (FIR) against Fedco for its previous mismanagement.
However, HITO said despite persistent efforts to engage constructively with government officials, no significant action has been taken against Fedco. Instead, the government appears to be extending an olive branch to the Sai Company, a decision that has been met with a wave of scepticism and distrust within the community, it added.
The organisation urged the government to heed the urgent demands of the public and to implement the necessary actions before residents feel compelled to take to the streets for justice.
