Mukroh urges halt to Assam road construction

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaNovember 20, 2024

Kitlang Maskut, the headman of Mukroh village under Laskein C&RD Block, West Jaintia Hills District, has accused the Assam government of encroaching on the village’s territory by constructing a new road. The alleged road connects Salang and Umlaphiah, passing through Mukroh’s jurisdiction.

Maskut raised the issue during the General Executive Committee meeting of the Synjuk Waheh Shnong Ri Jaintia (SWRJ) held in Mihmyntdu on November 19. He stated that the construction, undertaken by the Assam government or the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), began in late September. The road passes through the Assam Forest Beat House, which falls within Mukroh’s boundary.

Residents and the Dorbar Shnong of Mukroh have expressed strong opposition, warning that the road construction threatens to take over farmlands vital for the livelihood of the villagers. “Many residents risk losing their agricultural lands to this encroachment,” Maskut said.

The headman further alleged that Assam authorities are harassing farmers and villagers engaged in agricultural and forest-related activities. Farmers transporting essential items like firewood and building materials have reportedly been stopped, fined, and penalized by Assam Forest personnel operating within Mukroh’s territory.

In response to these developments, the Dorbar Shnong has urgently reported the matter to the district administration West Jaintia Hills and the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC). They have called for the immediate cessation of road construction and the deployment of Meghalaya police near the Assam Forest Beat House to ensure the safety of villagers.

“The state government must act swiftly to resolve this matter and ensure that Mukroh’s residents are not subjected to harassment or dispossession,” Maskut urged, adding that talks with Assam are necessary to prevent further disputes and safeguard the villagers’ rights.