Shillong: The Hynniewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO) on Tuesday urged the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) to conduct a thorough investigation and take stringent action against the alleged illegal tax collection at KHADC check gates.
In a letter to the KHADC chief S Rynjah, HITO stated, “We received alarming reports regarding the unlawful taxation practices perpetrated by certain individuals stationed at the KHADC check gates, specifically targeting commercial vehicles transporting goods.”
“In pursuit of truth and justice, our organisation conducted an on-site inspection at the KHADC forest check gates in Puriang, East Khasi Hills district, where we uncovered substantial evidence corroborating these serious allegations,” HITO said.
The letter further stated, “Our investigation revealed that an individual responsible for operations at the check gate was unlawfully collecting monetary contributions from vehicles traversing the highway. Disturbingly, drivers who resisted this extortion were met with threats of confiscation of their goods, creating a climate of fear and coercion.”
The organisation said, “It has come to our attention that the owner of the check gate may have issued directives to staff, compelling them to enforce such corrupt practices.”
According to HITO, the harassment at the check gate isn’t limited to commercial vehicles.
The organisation alleged that it also targets vulnerable labourers and daily wage earners, who depend on transporting essential goods like charcoal and used construction planks for their survival.
This highlights the widespread corruption and abuse of power by those operating the check gate, HITO added.
HITO asserted that its statements are based on factual evidence and witness accounts, clarifying that they are not mere unsubstantiated claims.
“We are prepared to present the necessary evidence and testimonies to substantiate our concerns whenever required,” it said.
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“We demand an immediate and thorough investigation into these malpractices, legal measures to be instituted against the perpetrators and revocation of tender and contract held by the owners of the check gates found guilty of such misconduct, ensuring that they are barred from reapplying for future tenders or contracts indefinitely.”
