Traditional heads set Jan 30 deadline on MUDA issue

SHILLONG: A delegation of Synjuk ki Nongsynshar Shnong, Upper Shillong, has given a deadline of January 30 to Urban Affairs Minister Ronnie Lyngdoh to resolve the alleged MUDA encroachment issue.
The Synjuk asserted that residents of certain villages are aggrieved over MUDA’s encroachment as they are facing problems in obtaining occupancy certificate, electric and water connection.
The Synjuk is an association of traditional heads from Lawsohtun, Lummawbah, Nongkseh, Umlyngka, Nongumlong, Lumpdeng, 5th Mile, 4th Mile, Mawklot, Myrkhan, Laitmynsaw and Nongpiur.
Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Gilbert Laloo, general secretary of the Synjuk said, “When he (Lyngdoh) took over as Minister, he assured that he would look into the MUDA encroachment issue. He made it clear to resign from the ministerial post and as an MLA if he fails.”
Laloo added that the association has given the Minister deadline till January 30 to fulfil the assurances he made. “The Minister should respect what he said, otherwise he will have to resign,” he said.
He informed that the KHADC has been apprised of the matter and a case will be filed in this connection.
Highlighting some of the issues that needed to be addressed, Laloo said villagers are facing problems while securing the occupancy certificate for building construction and has urged the minister to scrap this.
“All charges imposed by MUDA in respect of occupancy certificate and the labour cess related to construction works of houses will be exempted or scrapped,” he said.
“The representatives of the State Government should seek popular opinion as it is up to the people to decide,” he added.