JSU tells JHADC to halt trading licence issuance to non-tribals

SHILLONG, April 16: The Jaintia Students’ Union (central body) on Wednesday called on the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) Chief Executive Member (CEM), demanding an immediate halt to the issuance of fresh trading licences to non-tribals.
Maintaining that such licenses are meant for local tribals, the JSU also urged the Council not to issue NOC for any railway projects and even for the factories that could affect the tribals in the area.
Lamenting that tribal names are being misused by establishments allegedly run by non-tribals, the JSU called for the action against benami transactions under the Benami Transaction (Prohibition) Act, 1998.
The JSU further emphasised the unchecked issuance of trading licences to non-tribals, many of whom operate without valid permits, is directly impacting employment opportunities for the local tribal population, right from the smallest forms of work to larger businesses.
The students’ group warned that if the JHADC fails to address these issues with urgency and seriousness, the JSU will take it upon itself and handle the matters independently so as to protect tribal rights and identity.