SHILLONG, March 7: Opposition Chief Whip, George B Lyngdoh on Monday questioned the government over its sudden decision to withdraw general consent to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and wondered if the government was trying to protect someone.
Participating in the debate on the Governor’s address, Lyngdoh wanted to know who the state government was trying to protect. “Is the state government fearing something,” he questioned.
Hoping that the High Court of Meghalaya will be more alert over the action and inaction of the state government, the AITC MLA also slammed Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma for demanding proof of illegal coal mining on a day when two labourers died at a coal mine.
“Isn’t this enough proof? How many more labourers will have to die,” he asked.
Earlier, he slammed the government over the fact that youth were joining militant groups while the government was clueless.
Lyngdoh also pointed out that it was alarming that the government will conduct a study to find out why youths were joining militancy.
Asserting that this is clear indication that the government is clueless on the matter, he said that families are not able to afford education and youth are dropping out and without any job they are being lured towards illegalities.
“Youths sleep during the day time and wake up at night to engage in illegal collections. They are running around with AK-47s and looting petrol pumps,” he said.
The Umroi legislator also said that the farmers continue to be ignored while the state government has allowed illegal toll gates to mushroom all across the state which are collecting fees from poor farmers.
“Inspite of knowing that these toll gates are illegal, nothing is being done. These toll gates are collecting Rs 1000 to Rs 3000 each from poor farmers. Where is this money going?” Lyngdoh wanted to know.
Lyngdoh also pointed out that there are several vacancies in different departments but there has been no serious attempt to fill those vacancies.
He also alleged that the state government, by agreeing to the capping of SSA teachers from 90:10 to 75:25, has surrendered its federal right and is allowing itself to be bullied by the central government.