SHILLONG : Voice of the People Party (VPP) president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit has questioned the Meghalaya Government over the conduct of the Shree Cement Ltd public hearing, asking how officials could claim that a majority of people supported the project even before the hearing took place.
Addressing the media on Friday, Basaiawmoit took exception to Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong’s statement that more people were in favour of the proposed cement project than those opposing it.
“How did the government know, even before the public hearing was held, that more people were in support than in opposition?” Basaiawmoit asked.
He alleged that the statement suggested the outcome of the public hearing had already been predetermined and questioned the impartiality of the entire exercise.
According to the VPP leader, reports of roads being dug up and the deployment of security personnel allegedly prevented villagers from reaching the hearing venue.
He further alleged that force was used against local residents to discourage them from attending the public hearing, claiming that those opposed to the project were deliberately stopped from participating.
Basaiawmoit condemned what he described as the government’s “irresponsible” handling of the situation and claimed that several people were injured during the protests. He also referred to media reports alleging that expired tear gas shells were used against protesters on Thursday night.
He said the very purpose of a public hearing is to provide an opportunity for all stakeholders to express their views, but alleged that many local residents were denied that opportunity.
Reiterating the party’s stand, Basaiawmoit said the VPP continues to oppose the establishment of coke plants and cement factories in Meghalaya, arguing that such projects harm the environment while offering little benefit to ordinary citizens.
He added that the issue would feature prominently during the VPP’s peaceful march scheduled for August 6, and said the party would also deliberate further on the allegations surrounding the reported use of expired tear gas during the protest.