SHILLONG: Traders from Kharkutta in North Garo Hills have accused pressure groups/NGOs including the Garo Students’ Union of illegally collecting money from them.
Seeking the intervention of the NGH Deputy Commissioner into the matter, traders from the area alleged that members of “different NGOs like Garo Students Union, Kharkutta unit, Rajasimla Youth Council, Kharkutta Youth Organisation among others collect money” from them whenever they pass through the area.
The traders alleged that the pressure group/NGO members harass them if they refuse to pay the sum.
According to the traders, the illegal collection is affecting their business and urged the DC to take action against the NGOs.
The traders argued that they are already facing insurgency-related problems and if the illegal collection by NGOs continues they would be forced to stop coming to the area.
The alleged receipts issued show that the Kharkutta Youth Organisation and GSU are charging Rs 500 each from the traders while the Rajasimla Youth Council is collecting Rs 300.
