SHILLONG: The ongoing controversy over the illegal eviction drive carried out by the Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC) in the Lum Survey area of Shillong has intensified, drawing the attention of the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission.
Taking a sou motu cognizance, the Commission has demanded a detailed report from the Chief Secretary DP Wallang by May 30 regarding the actions taken by the HYC.
On May 23, the police registered a case against key HYC leaders for their involvement in the unauthorised eviction targeting alleged illegal settlers in the Lum Survey area.
Superintendent of Police (SP) of East Khasi Hills district, Rituraj Ravi, confirmed that the case was filed at Sadar police station.
The charges have been brought against several HYC leaders, including President Roy Kupar Synrem, Vice-President Donbok Kharlyngdoh, and Assistant General Secretary Isaac Basaiawmoit, among others.
The conflict began when HYC members executed a demolition drive following the expiration of a “two-week deadline” they had given to the East Khasi Hills administration to remove what they described as “illegal structures”.
The settlers, labelled as “illegal settlers” and “Bangladeshis” by the HYC, have since appealed to the Meghalaya government for relief from their plight.
HYC President Synrem defended the group’s actions, stating that the eviction drive was intended to convey a strong message about their commitment to addressing what they perceive as illegal activities in the area.
“We cannot allow people involved in drug dealing to resume their illegal activities from this place,” he had asserted, adding that the settlers were advised to remove their belongings before the dismantling began.
As the situation unfolds, the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission’s intervention and the forthcoming report from the Chief Secretary will be crucial in determining the next steps in this contentious issue.
