HPC seeks more time to respond on govt’s proposal to relocate 342 families from Them Iew Mawlong

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 26, 2024

The Harijan Panchayat Committee (HPC) on Monday appealed to the state government for an extension of the time required to respond to the blueprint for the relocation of 342 families from Them Iew Mawlong.

This appeal comes after the 15-day period granted by the state government to the HPC for communicating its final decision on the proposal expired today.

In a statement, HPC Secretary Gurjit Singh said that following a recent meeting where the Deputy Chief Minister suggested that the Committee convey its final decision within two weeks, the Harijan Panchayat Committee emphasized that this short period is insufficient for them to consult with the highest authorities of the Sikh community.

“We intend to seek the counsel of the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, the Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee in Amritsar, the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee, and other senior community organizations and leaders. Their guidance is crucial,” Singh said.

“Given the current engagements and prior commitments of the Sikh religious leadership, they have indicated that they will not be available for consultations for the next two to three weeks.”

The letter suggested that in light of these circumstances, the Harijan Panchayat Committee earnestly requests that the next meeting on this issue be scheduled around the last week of September. The Committee is hopeful that by that time, they will be able to present a well-considered response that reflects the consensus of the broader community.

The Harijan Panchayat Committee has politely sought the cooperation of the Government of Meghalaya in this matter of great importance, Singh stated.