SHILLONG: The PDF coalition in KHADC will file a fresh petition in the Meghalaya High Court vis-à-vis the government’s implementation of building bye laws.
KHADC Chief Executive Member P.N Syiem told reporters that after taking into consideration the grievances faced by the general public, the coalition has decided to take the step.
“Residents of urban and sub-urban areas are affected due to the State Government’s implementation of building permission,” Syiem said.
“MeECL and PHE were instructed not to grant electricity and water connection to those who have not availed themselves of building permission,” he added.
The PDF coalition will file the petition when the High Court reopens and make it ready before January 28.
The State Government had on November 5 last issued the notification exempting scheduled areas from the purview of MUDA building bye laws following pressure from traditional institutions.
It was a setback for the KHADC as the High Court extended the jurisdiction of the bye laws beyond municipal areas after hearing a PIL seeking the implementation of the building permission in the entire Shillong Master Plan areas.
Syiem expressed dismay at the State Government not appealing to the division bench or the Supreme Court against the ruling of the High Court.
Reminder soon on VAB
Commenting on the Village Administration Bill (VAB), 2014, Syiem said the PDF coalition will write a reminder to the Governor and a copy will be given to the state government so as to keep a tab on the status of the bill. He informed that the VAB is still with the Home Ministry even as the KHADC has clarified the 12-point query of the MHA.
“Since there is a delay in implementing VAB, the PDF coalition has decided to write a reminder to the Governor and a copy will be given to the State Government to know the status/position of the VAB,” Syiem said.
“We want to understand on what basis the State Government has advised the Governor to send the Bill to the Home Ministry, which should in fact be returned to the District Council along with suggestions from the State Government or the Governor,” he added.
He pointed out that if there is a need to talk to the traditional heads, the KHADC will do so.
