Forest and Environment dept favoured cement companies: SOMALA

SHILLONG: The Social Organizations of Meghalaya Against Land Alienation (SOMALA) has accused the   Forest and Environment department of favouring cement companies which have allegedly constructed cement plants by “misusing people’s land”.
In a memorandum submitted to Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Revenue, RC Laloo, the SOMALA demanded an inquiry into the alleged illegal purchase and other modes of misuse of land by the cement companies.
The SOMALA pointed out that the Meghalaya Transfer of Land Regulation Act 197 prohibited the alienation of land to non-tribals.
Meanwhile, the SOMALA also reminded the Deputy Chief Minister that a letter was written on February 3 seeking an appointment with him, but in vain as there was no favourable response.
Recently, the Meghalaya Eco-Friendly Student’s Union (MEFSU) threatened to move the NGT against nine cement plants in Jaintia Hills which have allegedly violated the various provisions of the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.
According to MEFSU, the nine companies are Adhunik Cement Limited, Amrit Cement Industries Limited, Cement Manufacturing Company Limited, Cosmos Cement Limited, Green Valley Industries Limited, Goldstone Cement Limited, Hills Cement Company Limited, JUD Cements Limited and Meghalaya Cement Limited.