SHILLONG: The Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) on Friday submitted a memorandum to Community & Rural Development Minister, Prestone Tynsong demanding the creation of a C&RD block in Mawlai.
Addressing media persons, FKJGP’s Mawlai circle president Marbud Dkhar asserted that Mawlai, with a population of over 55,000, definitely meets the criteria for the creation of a C&RD Block.
“The federation has reiterated its demand for the creation of a block at Mawlai as in the Budget speech 2016-17, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma had announced the creation of four new C&RD blocks– Mawlai, Bhoi Rymbong, Dendema (West Garo Hills) and Rerapara (South West Garo Hills),” he added.
Stating that there may be some people who may turn the demand into a political issue, he said, “Those with vested interests are opposing the demand for creation of the Mawlai block since the State Assembly election is near.”
Dkhar pointed out that with the formation of a block, the people of the area can avail themselves of various welfare schemes of the Centre.
Meanwhile, Tynsong assured the delegation that posts will be sanctioned for the development of Mawlai as a block and he has directed the district Deputy Commissioner to work out plans for the same.
“The minister informed that he will implement the C&RD block before the 2018 elections,” Dkhar said.
The federation, meanwhile, said that the office of the Mawlai block should be situated in the area itself.