SHILLONG : The Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU) has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) before the Meghalaya High Court challenging the July 31 public hearing held for Shree Cement’s proposed mining project at Lum Syrman in Elaka Nongkhlieh.
The PIL was filed by JSU Education Secretary Bocheru Mi Pohsnem and General Secretary Neilkee Mukhim. The Union has described the public hearing as a “46-minute sham”, alleging that stakeholders were prevented from participating in the proceedings.
The JSU said it approached the Meghalaya High Court after the state government allegedly failed to take action on its representations and FIRs concerning the incident.
The Union also pointed out that related matters are already pending before the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission (MHRC) and the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
According to the JSU, armed men allegedly assaulted protesters and attacked its ambulance during the public hearing, leaving the ambulance driver, Rapbor Mukhim, injured.
The Union further alleged that police used tear gas against youths and that the FIR was diluted to protect those accused of attacking the protesters.
Expressing hope that the High Court would take cognizance of the matter, the JSU said, “We hope the High Court won’t see us as mere cockroaches and will deliver justice.”
The students’ body also warned that it would intensify its agitation if the court does not take cognizance of the issues raised in the PIL.
The case comes amid growing opposition to the proposed Shree Cement mining project and continuing demands for accountability over the July 31 public hearing.