Meghalaya Government Seeks Defence Land for Harijan Colony Relocation, Plans Alternative if Denied

SHILLONG: The Meghalaya government hopes to get 2-3 acres of land from the Defence authorities to help move residents from Harijan Colony at Them Iew Mawlong. If the land transfer doesn't happen, the government is ready to go ahead with its original relocation plan.

Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong addressed the media on Friday, stating that the resolution of the Harijan Colony resettlement issue is contingent on the Ministry of Defence's decision regarding the land at Lum Survey. He mentioned that the Sikh community residing in the colony is open to the idea of resettling on the Defence land adjacent to their current location. "The state government has approached the Ministry of Defence with a request to transfer the required land," Tynsong stated. "The matter is currently being examined by the Ministry, and we will wait for their response." He expressed optimism that the issue would be resolved quickly if the Defence authorities agree to the land transfer.

When asked about the government's course of action if the Defence authorities do not agree to release the land, Tynsong explained, "We would have no other options apart from that," referring to the original relocation plan.

Regarding potential opposition from settlers about dismantling religious structures in the locality, Tynsong noted that such discussions have not yet taken place.

In the past, the government considered moving the residents to land owned by the government within the city. But now, the focus is on empty land at Lum Survey, which the settlers have agreed is a good place for relocation.

The push to move the settlers from Harijan Colony grew stronger after the violent clashes in 2018, which showed the area's tensions. In response, the government set up a committee to look into the issue, and the committee recommended relocating the settlers.

The road to Harijan Colony, which had been closed for years because of the unrest, was reopened to the public in November last year. However, police still stay in the area to keep the peace and avoid any problems.

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