Tura MDC writes to banks, petrol pumps, mobile companies in WGH over TNT licenses

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 6, 2025

BJP MDC from Tura, Bernard N. Marak, has written to banks, petrol pumps, and mobile companies in Tura, West Garo Hills, regarding the issuance of Trading by Non-Tribal (TNT) licenses.

Marak expressed concern over businesses operating without proper authorization, citing constitutional provisions applicable to Sixth Schedule areas.

He stated that non-tribal businesses in the Tura GHADC area must obtain a TNT license with a formal recommendation from the local MDC.

Marak added that he plans to convene a meeting with managers of banks, petrol pumps, and mobile companies to clarify the matter and take necessary steps regarding TNT licenses.

The MDC has requested these businesses to provide details on whether they have applied for or currently hold a valid TNT license recommended by him, with a prompt response expected within a week via email at [email protected].

This move follows a claim by the Executive Member for Taxation that Marak had recommended TNT licenses. Marak denies this, stating no such recommendations have been made or processed through his office.

“In response, the Executive Member for Taxation informed the House that such licenses had been recommended by the Hon’ble MDC of Tura which was not true. However, I would like to clarify that no such recommendations have been officially made or processed through my office to date and would like to convene a meeting with all the Managers of Banks, Petrol Pumps and Mobile Companies operating in my Tura Constituency to clarify and take necessary steps,” Marak said.

He added “This discrepancy suggests that several institutions may currently be operating without proper legal authorization, thereby contravening the constitutional provisions applicable to Sixth Schedule areas. As per practice, any non-tribal agency or company intending to carry on business in this area must obtain a TNT license with a formal recommendation from the local MDC.

In light of this, I kindly request your institution to furnish details regarding whether you have applied for or currently hold a valid TNT license recommended by me.”

The MDC asserted that this information is essential to address the irregularities and to initiate appropriate steps to regularize such operations in accordance with established legal protocols.