Shillong, August 1: Tension gripped Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district during the public hearing for Shree Cement’s proposed Lum Syrman Limestone Mining Block-A project, as protests and clashes erupted at multiple locations despite the statutory exercise being completed.
The hearing drew opposition from several groups, while a number of local leaders backed the proposed mining project, saying it could create employment opportunities and contribute to the region’s economic development.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong clarified that the public hearing was only a mandatory legal procedure and should not be interpreted as approval for the mining project. He said the proposal would undergo all required environmental and legal scrutiny before any final decision is taken.
Unrest was reported near Umpleng Market, where police allegedly fired tear gas after members of the Hynniewtrep Students’ Youth Front (HSYF) attempted to stop people described as outsiders from attending the hearing.
The HSYF alleged that police used force during the confrontation. However, there was no immediate official statement from the authorities regarding the incident.
Tension also flared near Lad Tongseng after a section of the road was reportedly dug up, allegedly preventing people from travelling to the venue of the public hearing.
The Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU) claimed that its ambulance and medical team came under attack while trying to assist people who were injured during the disturbances.
Despite the protests and disruptions, officials said the public hearing was conducted and concluded in accordance with the prescribed legal procedures.
