Shillong, Nov 7: The Jaintia National Council (JNC) has expressed regret regarding the protest initiated by the MCTODA concerning the unpaid transportation rates by cement factories.
In a statement, JNC president Sambormi Lyngdoh mentioned that the union met with MCTODA members in Mawryngkneng yesterday.
According to Lyngdoh during the meeting, they explored the underlying issues and discovered that while the company has indeed paid the rates to the truckers as per government standards. but unfortunately does not apply to everyone; only some are receiving the rates.
“The truckers’ association stated that if the cement factories adhere to the government-set prices, the association will refrain from striking,” the JNC president said.
He added that upon investigation, the root cause during discussions with MCTODA leaders, it became evident that the district council, which is supposed to protect local trades, is instead bolstering non-tribal businesses.
Lyngdoh said that additionally, these companies have the freedom to acquire their own trucks, with Star Cement operating 300 to 400 trucks, along with Topcem, Amrit, and others.
Consequently, on behalf of the JNC, strongly urge the district council to enforce the non-tribal trade regulations, particularly regarding vehicle purchases by these companies.
“We also call on the state government to impose restrictions on vehicle acquisitions by these companies to protect the interests of our Indigenous Peoples,” he said.
The JNC president said that if the government genuinely seeks peace, it must release the MCTODA leaders to facilitate discussions.
“How can dialogue occur if the leaders are in custody?” he said.
The JNC also urged the JAC of the Jaintia Hills Trucks Association, the East Jaintia Trucks Association, and MCTODA, the two organizations representing truck owners and drivers, to unite.
