SHILLONG, July 20: Pressure groups and majority of the stakeholders have expressed strong opposition to any attempt by the Hima Mylliem to alter or destroy the “Law Mawpat” forest, which was declared as “Law Adong” (protected forest) in 2014.
Speaking to The Shillong Times on Sunday, KSU Mawlai Circle president Biangbor L Paliar recalled supporting the Meghalaya Town Dorbar (MTD)’s initiative to reserve the forest, formerly known as “Law Syiem”, as a protected area.
He stated that the KSU had opposed the decision by the Myntris of Hima Mylliem to allot plots of land within this protected forest, stressing the urgent need to safeguard what remains of the region’s natural environment.
“We have seen how many forest areas have turned barren due to rampant deforestation. We do not want “Law Adong” to suffer the same fate because of the actions of the Hima Mylliem,” Paliar said.
He also highlighted that the Umsohlang reservoir in Mawlai depends on this forest, and any allotment of land to individuals could jeopardise this crucial water source that caters to several localities, including Mawlai.
Echoing similar concerns, FKJGP president Dundee Cliff Khongsit emphasised the importance of preserving the “Law Adong”.
“We too had supported the MTD’s initiative. We stand firmly against any move to destroy this protected forest, especially since it serves as a primary water source for many neighbouring localities,” Khongsit said.
He underscored the responsibility of conserving natural resources for future generations, asserting that they must not be misused.
While acknowledging that Hima Mylliem has already allotted land within the area for graveyards and churches, Khongsit clarified that the FKJGP does not intend to contest what has already been granted.
“We want to send a clear message that enough is enough. Hima Mylliem must stop all further land allotments inside the ‘Law Adong’,” he warned.
Mawpat Rangbah Shnong Judah Wahlang praised the KHADC, particularly during the tenure of former CEM Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit, for taking the step to declare “Law Mawpat” a protected forest.
Wahlang said the move was necessary to prevent land distribution by Hima Mylliem to private individuals.
He firmly asserted that Hima Mylliem has no authority to allot land whether for community halls, football grounds, churches, or any other purpose within the “Law Adong”.
The Rangbah Shnong called on localities such as Mawlai, Mawpat, and Pynthorumkhrah to take the lead in ensuring that the forest land is not misused.
Social activist Toki Blah also spoke strongly in favour of preserving the forest, describing it as community land that must be protected at all costs.
He pointed out that this green zone, located between old and new Shillong, is critical to maintaining ecological balance, particularly in the context of the smart city initiative.
Blah condemned the reported plans by Hima Mylliem and some MLAs to sell land within the protected forest, calling it an act of “daylight robbery” against the community.
“Just as petty thieves are punished for stealing mobile phones, those in positions of power must also face justice. The law should apply equally to all,” he asserted.
He urged the High Court of Meghalaya to take suo motu cognisance of the issue and launch an inquiry into the alleged illegal sale of land within the community forest.
“We must send a strong message to elected representatives and others who think they can exploit community resources. This must not be allowed,” Blah added.
