SHILLONG: The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), has affirmed that the forest check gates, strategically established by the council to combat illegal transportation of timber and other items, will continue despite allegations of illegal tax collection.
Pyniaid Sing Syiem, Chief Executive Member of council, told the press on Sunday that there is “no question of stopping the checking of vehicles at these gates”.
“Any truck or vehicle caught for any illegality will be penalised,” he was quoted as saying.
He also stressed that the primary purpose of these checkpoints is to curb illicit activities, with no intention of tax collection.
Dismissing allegations of tax imposition at these check gates, Syiem clarified, “The council does not collect any taxes at the check gates.”
Regarding toll gates, Syiem underscored their significance in regulating the transport of goods by non-tribal traders.
He highlighted that many non-tribal vegetable traders exploit local farmers by purchasing produce at unfairly low prices and without proper documentation.
While acknowledging the potential for irregularities in the placement of multiple toll gates along the same stretch, Syiem insisted that they are not illegal.
He pledged the council’s commitment to rectify any irregularities, if present, and announced plans to submit a comprehensive list of revenue toll gates to the state government by the next week.
In response to allegations made by Moskalander Marngar, president of the Meghalaya Commercial Truck Owners & Drivers Association (MCTO&DA), who claimed that truckers are subject to inconsistent toll charges, Syiem maintained the legality of the toll gates.
Earlier Marngar had asserted that the association will withhold toll payments until a clear working plan, finalised in collaboration with the government, is provided by the council.
Syiem concluded by stating that the KHADC will submit documentation citing constitutional provisions from the Sixth Schedule, empowering the council to establish toll gates.
He mentioned their intent to include a High Court ruling supporting the council’s authority in this matter.
The ongoing debate surrounding toll gate operations continues to stir tensions between the KHADC and local transport associations.
