The Khasi Students Union (KSU), Laban circle has demanded immediate removal of settlers in the city within 15 days.
The union said that the settlers are illegal using the Maxwelton Estate, which is about nine acres, that falls under the jurisdiction of the Dorbar Shnong Kenches Trace Oxford Rilbong.
The demand to evict the illegal settlers and cattle breeders was raised by the KSU since 2022 with no steps being taken by authorities concern.
Stating that there is a huge number of illegal settlers in the area without the consent or approval of the dorbar shnong or any appropriate authority, circle president, Reuben Najiar said that the illegal settlers are migrating into the area unchecked leading to influx and security concerns for the society and community. Over the years they have build sheds and huts and have no proper sanitation and all the waste are being disposed in to streams and open pit which has cause various health issues to the genuine neighbouring residents, he added.
He stated that some of the illegal settlers even breed cattle and other livestock in Maxwelton Estate though it falls under the jurisdiction of the Shillong Municipal Board. Najiar said this is in violation of the provisions and rules of Meghalaya Municipal Act, 1973, which the board through its inaction is condoning such acts without taking effective measures.
The KSU leader said that the recent complaint made to the board was on June 5, 2023. Though the cattle breeders were served with notices, till date there has been no eviction raising serious doubts as to the commitments of the appropriate authorities and a strong assumption of foul play being involved, he said.
All these issues were again raised today by the KSU before the East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner. The union said that the area is gradually being converted into an area of criminal transaction and misconduct which in a manner is being sponsored and supported by these illegal settlers.
“Over the years, there have been many unlawful cases which have been reported. This area has become a bliss for prostitution, smuggling and peddling of narcotics and drugs substances, robbery and dacoity which has made the area very unsafe for women and children and the locality as a whole,” the KSU said.
