Black flag rally in Khliehriat: JNC voices strong opposition to railway project

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMarch 7, 2025

The Jaintia National Council (JNC) led a black flag rally in Khliehriat on Thursday to protest the proposed railway project in East Jaintia Hills. Protesters marched through the streets, carrying banners with slogans like “We Reject Railway” and “Jaintia Rejects Railway.”

The rally started near Holy Family English School and proceeded to the Deputy Commissioner’s office, ending in front of the statue of Woh Kiang Nangbah. Protesters demanded a Government College, better roads, adequate health facilities, and the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP).

Non-tribal run shops were asked to close during the rally. The meeting, led by Mehi Rymbai, included representatives from various local associations.

Theodor Darnei, Secretary of the All Biate Students Association, and Oswald Nampui, President of JYF-Saipung Circle, expressed their strong opposition to the Northeast Frontier Railways (NFR) inspection of the railway line to the Saipung area, citing its adverse impact on agricultural land. They demanded that the government provide schools, health centers, roads, and other facilities instead, as the Saipung area remains underdeveloped.

JNC President Sambormi Lyngdoh criticized the central government for delaying many demands related to the welfare of the country and the people, while expediting the railway project. He questioned the benefit of the railway line, arguing that it would primarily serve non-tribal traders and industries, as local farmers and traders currently lack the capacity to produce goods for rail transport. Lyngdoh warned that the railway line would benefit only a few individuals and could lead to an influx of non-tribal settlers.

Other speakers, including FKJGP-Khliehriat Circle President Michael Chyrmang and Meghalaya Indigenous Women’s Council President Bythygrace Dkhar, called for the government to stop the railway project in East Jaintia Hills. They urged the government to improve schools, health centers, and dilapidated roads, particularly the highway in the Narpuh area.

The opposition to the railway line is rooted in concerns over inadequate laws to protect minorities and the potential threat of non-tribal infiltration. The JNC and its supporters remain steadfast in their demand for the government to prioritize the development of essential infrastructure over the railway project.