SHILLONG : Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong on Thursday said those opposing the public hearing on the proposed Shree Cement factory are “mistaken” and urged them to participate in the hearing process instead of protesting elsewhere.
Speaking to reporters, Tynsong said the government remains open to discussion whenever misunderstandings arise but stressed that opposing the public hearing itself is not the correct approach.
“We are always open for discussion. When there is any kind of misunderstanding, we are always there to resolve the issue. But now those people who are against the public hearing, I think that is wrong. They are mistaken,” he said.
According to the Deputy Chief Minister, the purpose of the public hearing is to understand the views of stakeholders and local residents regarding the proposed cement factory.
“When we say public hearing, what is it? It is to know the mind of the people, the stakeholders, whether you want to have a cement factory or not. That is very clear,” Tynsong stated.
He further pointed out that the public hearing is mandatory under existing regulations and is being conducted by the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board.
“So, if you are against it, go there. The provisions of the regulations clearly indicate that the Pollution Control Board has to conduct the public hearing,” he said.
Tynsong urged agitators and protestors to attend the hearing and voice their concerns directly at the designated platform.
“So, the public will prove, whether you are in favor or against it. It’s simple. So, I request these agitators, please don’t misunderstand. Please understand the stages of procedures and attend the public hearing and raise your concern over there in the public hearing,” he added.
Questioning protests staged outside government offices, the Deputy Chief Minister said the public hearing itself is the proper venue for objections and discussions.
“I don’t understand why they are protesting at the DC office or other places. Why not do it there? When you are concerned, please do it there. We are very transparent,” he said.
Tynsong also dismissed allegations that the Meghalaya government was trying to force the project upon the people.
“Please, they should not misunderstand that the government is acting by force. What do you mean we are acting by force? If we were acting by force, there would not even be a public hearing. The work would have gone ahead directly,” he stated.
The Deputy Chief Minister reiterated that the hearing was specifically arranged to collect public opinion on environmental, economic and social concerns linked to the proposed cement project.
“I want to clarify to those who are unhappy, who are opposing: please give your suggestions at the public hearing. That is the reason the public hearing has been specifically arranged — to get all opinions and thoughts, whether you talk about environmental issues or economic issues. All of that should be raised at the public hearing,” he added.