Shillong, July 18: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has sealed a mosque at 4th Furlong in Shillong, alleging that the religious structure was built without the required statutory approvals and supporting land documents. The action was undertaken on Friday by members of the KSU’s Shillong Mihngi Circle under the leadership of the organisation’s Central Executive Committee organising secretary, Cleenstar Shabong.
The drive coincided with the observance of the 191st death anniversary of Khasi freedom fighter U Tirot Sing Syiem. In a statement, the student body claimed that the land on which the mosque stands is allegedly owned by Nurul Choudhary, whom it described as a non-local resident. The organisation further stated that its inspection failed to establish the existence of the necessary permissions or official records relating to the construction of the mosque.
“We have sealed the mosque. It will remain closed until the necessary documents are produced and it is established how permission for the construction was obtained,” the KSU said in its statement.
The union also said it would continue monitoring structures it considers unauthorised across Shillong and would object wherever it finds alleged violations of land ownership or building regulations.
The incident comes amid the KSU’s ongoing campaign focusing on issues such as land ownership, alleged illegal settlements and the implementation of laws intended to protect the interests of Meghalaya’s indigenous communities.
Established in 1978, the KSU is one of the state’s most influential student organisations and has long played a prominent role in public debates on tribal identity, land rights, employment and the demand for implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP). Although it is not a political party, the organisation has often influenced public opinion and policy discussions in Meghalaya.
Over the years, the KSU has also faced criticism over its campaigns against alleged illegal immigrants, protests opposing railway projects, eviction drives and inspections of businesses and establishments allegedly operating without valid documents. The organisation, however, has consistently maintained that such initiatives are intended to safeguard the rights and interests of Meghalaya’s indigenous people.
