HNYF demands govt to halt proposed land acquisition at Umtham village

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 18, 2025

The Hynniewtrep National Youth Front (HNYF) has demanded the state government to halt the proposed land acquisition by the Meghalaya Industrial Development and Finance Corporation (MID&FC) or the Meghalaya Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) at Umtham village in Ri Bhoi District.

In a letter submitted to the chief minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday, finance secretary of the HNYF Robin Umbah alleged that the proposed acquisition of 14 acres of land at a cost of ₹21 crores, which translates to approximately Rs 450 per square foot, is excessive. 

According to their investigation, the highest market rate for land in the area is around Rs 150 per square foot, raising serious concerns about corruption and misuse of public funds.

“This significant disparity raises serious concerns about corruption and misuse of public funds. We fear that this deal may be a blatant attempt to siphon off public money and we request your immediate intervention to investigate this matter,” Umbah stated in the letter.

“In light of this allegation, we humbly request your good office to halt the proposed land acquisition by MID&FC/MIDC at Umtham village and conduct a thorough investigation into the matter to determine the actual market value of the land,” he said while demanding action against officials found to be involved in corrupt practices or attempting to misuse public funds.