Members of the Federation of Khasi Jaiñtia and Garo People (FKJGP) today conducted its surprise inspection of shops belonging to non-tribal shopkeepers in Keating Road.
According to the organisation, many of these shops were operating without valid documents like trading and labour licenses from the Shillong Municipal Board.
The inspection was objected by the district authorities as the organisation was not authorised and did not inform the dorbar shnong to carry out such check.
However, most shops had to down shutters as the organisation proceeded with their inspection.
FKJGP Malki unit secretary, Khraw Lynshing said that several non-tribal-owned shops had not obtained the necessary trading licences to operate their establishments and some did not renew their license since 2010.
He also stated that numerous shops and residences have encroached on revenue land by constructing drains especially in Keating Road.
Lynshing stated that the local shopkeepers have been subjected to indifference by inspections carried out by authorities as their shops or houses were razed. He questioned if the government was hesitant to act on non-tribal offenders and said impartiality and fairness should apply across all sections of the community.
