The opposition to the relocation of the office of the Umsning Block Development Officer to Lad Umpih has garnered greater support as a Joint Action Committee against the move was formed today with more than 30 villages coming together.
The Umsning block office is currently in Lumnongrim Dewlieh, whose headman, R Kharkrang, is leading the JAC. Three pressure groups are also supporting the public opposition.
The Community and Rural Development Department has decided to move the office to Lad Umpih because the current location is very congested, with insufficient space for parking and poor internet services.
The JAC, however, is against the move, which was taken without considering the opinion of the local Rangbah Shnongs and general public.
As far as congestion goes, the JAC said that the site of the new office is only 2 acres while the existing one is 10 acres in size.
“There is something fishy that the BDO has taken the decision to shift the office from the existing location to the new one, as there is huge space for the department to construct new offices and quarters,” said the leaders.
The JAC plans on submitting a memorandum against the relocation to the Chief Secretary, the C&RD MInister and Umsning MLA. They also want the BDO, Raja Brahmah, removed from his post.