The Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC) has alleged that Assam forest officials have been harassing villagers of Raid Nongtung, Ri-Bhoi and have filed a complaint to this effect with the Deputy Commissioner.
HYC Ri-Bhoi President Hercules Suting claimed that villagers in Jatalong and Madan Umwang face harassment from Assam officials if they cut trees for firewood or construction. Financial penalties have been imposed on the villagers for such ‘offences’.
He also alleged that Assam forest officials had forced villagers to register their land in Assam as well as their names in the state’s electoral roll if they want to avail of facilities in the border area.