The opposition Voice of the People Party (VPP) today expressed concern in the Assembly that land in the New Shillong Township in Mawkhanu would find its way into the hands of non-tribals.
Mawlai MLA Brightstarwell Marbaniang questioned whether the government had allocated land in the NST to specific departments and whether it planned on converting any of it into another European Ward (where non-tribals are allowed to own land) or RR Colony (where refugees from Bangladesh were settled).
With the state government planning to construct a new Secretariat at Umsawli and developing roads between Umsawli and Mawkhanu, which would cut travel times between the two, Marbaniang wondered whether the government has considered allocating land in Mawkhanu for district or other offices and, if so, how many departments had approached the government.
In response, Urban Affairs Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar stated, “At present, we have not decided to allot land to any department. However, as a government, we will plan accordingly and a decision will be taken at the right time.”
Marbaniang pointed out that Mawkhanu spans approximately 800 acres, or roughly 3 square kilometres, which is larger than the European Ward. He pressed for a clear yes or no on whether the land would be converted into another European Ward, an RR Colony, or revenue plots. Citing media reports, he mentioned that the Khasi Students’ Union had raised concerns over the alleged transfer of land to non-tribals. He urged the government to immediately investigate and revoke any such land transfers or leases and conduct a spot inspection to ascertain whether there are any illegal settlers occupying land there. Additionally, he emphasised the need to enforce the Transfer of Land Regulation Act 1971 to ensure that no land is transferred to non-tribals or non-tribal entities, whether individuals or companies.
Dhar reiterated that no plans were currently in place, stating, “The master plan is still being prepared. Only after that will a decision be made. As of now, there are no plans to allot land to anyone or convert it into a European Ward.”
Marbaniang further urged the government to reconsider setting up a scientific landfill site in Mawkhanu, given that it is government-owned land. “Since the government land at Mawkhanu is around 800 acres, I request the government to re-examine the possibility of developing a waste management plant there,” he suggested.
Dhar responded that an alternative to the current landfill at Marten (which is at capacity) has already been proposed in Nonghali, which is in the area around Mawryngkneng.
