JOWAI: The construction of a structure by former MLA and Congress member Sayeedullah Nongrum in Jowai has come under scanner with the Jaintia Youth Federation terming the project as illegal and in violation of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) order.
The JYC also pointed out that the structure has been constructed 90m away from River Myntdu which is in violation of the order passed by the West Jaintia Hills District Magistrate that prohibits any construction within a distance of 500m from the river.
The JYF has urged the police and the district administration to stop the illegal construction and take stern action against the violators.
According to sources, Nongrum, who is also the president of Shillong Muslim Union, bought the land measuring around 4,000 square feet from one Lamjingshai Suchen of Mission Compound and used it for construction of a mosque.
Sources also claimed that no permission was obtained from any competent authority, including the Municipal Board or Urban department for the construction.
The JYF inspected the site before a complaint was lodged. Jowai police also inspected the construction site.
When contacted, Nongrum said that only a thatched house has been built on the land for the sole purpose of prayers to cater to the needs of the faithful and it is also meant for theological education.
“We are ready to cooperate with the district administration and if it can provide alternate land we will shift,” Nongrum said adding that he will respect the verdict of NGT if any.
Meanwhile, the Meghalaya People United Front (MPUF) has called a meeting in Jowai on June 17 to discuss the issue of “illegal construction of the mosque”.
