Lumshnong VECs allege roadblock by BDO, suspend MGNREGA work
JOWAI, Sep 2: The Village Employment Councils (VECs) of Lumshnong C&RD Block have decided to suspend MGNREGA work in the block, while accusing the BDO of Wapung C&RD Block, T. Shylla, of creating obstructing in their work. Shylla had reportedly prevented the Village Employment Councils (VECs) from various villages in Lumshnong C&RD Block from entering their material bills, despite the VECs having completed their work before the end of the 2023-2024 financial year. Though the VECs had already submitted their Utilisation Certificates (UCs) to the Wapung C&RD Block, Shylla allegedly barred his staff from processing the material bills from Lumshnong C&RD Block. When questioned by the VECs, Shylla attributed this decision to directives from the state government. In this regard, the office-bearers of the VEC Lumshnong C&RD Block Association met with the Joint Mission Director (SRES), I. Diengdoh, on August 27, during which the latter clarified that there was no such directive from the government, and that the Lumshnong C&RD Block has not been officially transferred to Wapung C&RD Block. She then informed that it is the BDO’s responsibility to manage the affairs of both blocks. Diengdoh, during the meeting, also confirmed that funds, amounting to less than Rs 15 crore for the financial year 2023-2024, have already been released for both blocks. While the VECs of Lumshnong C&RD Block have expressed their gratitude to the state government for releasing these funds, they remain puzzled by the BDO’s refusal to process their bills. Diengdoh also said that the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) is a crucial scheme for the development of rural areas. Meanwhile, the VECs also alleged that the BDO in question has failed to convene meetings with the VECs in the Lumshnong C&RD Block, leading to growing frustration. As a result, the VECs have decided to suspend MGNREGA work in the block if the issue remains unresolved.
Overturning lower court order, HC allows summoning of addl witnesses
SHILLONG, Sep 2: The High Court of Meghalaya has overturned an order by the Sessions Judge, South West Khasi Hills District, which had previously rejected the prosecution’s application to summon and examine additional witnesses in a murder case. The case stems from an FIR filed on October 23, 2011, by one Prialdoris Mawlein at the Nongstoin Police Station, alleging that the respondent brutally murdered Komli Mawlein Shianglang at a coal quarry by using firewood while the victim was asleep. It was also alleged that after committing the crime, the respondent fled away from the spot. The incident was later transferred to Ranikor Police Station, where it was registered under Section 302 of the IPC. After a charge-sheet was filed, the trial commenced with five witnesses examined by the prosecution. However, after the respondent’s statement was recorded, the prosecution sought to summon five additional witnesses, which the Trial Court rejected on July 25, 2023, citing delays. Dissatisfied with the ruling, the State filed a criminal petition before the High Court. After hearing the arguments, the High Court quashed the impugned order from the Sessions Court, allowing the prosecution to summon the additional witnesses. The Trial Court has been directed to issue summons to these witnesses and set dates for recording their evidence.
Bihari freshers’ meet in city
SHILLONG, Sep 2: The Bihari Students’ Association on Sunday organised the 10th Bihari freshers’ meet with an exhibition of colourful performances at the U Soso Tham Auditorium here. The event, which was attended by South Shillong MLA Sanbor Shullai as the chief guest, was divided into two sections, formal and informal, spread over morning and afternoon sessions. While the morning session culminated with lighting of lamps, an address by the chief guest and felicitation of university toppers, the afternoon session was a mix of colourful performances, and selection of Mr and Miss Freshers 2024. Meanwhile, the titles of Mr. and Miss Freshers were bagged by David Prasad of St Edmund’s College and Komal Sharma of St Anthony’s College respectively.