By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 23: North Shillong MLA Adelbert Nongrum on Tuesday urged the state government to take immediate steps to relocate 342 families from Them Iew Mawlong, reminding it that it has failed to honour this commitment despite another year nearing its end.
Nongrum told reporters that the proposed relocation has remained unfulfilled for far too long.
“As an elected representative, it is my duty to appreciate the government when it does the right thing and criticise it when it is necessary,” he said, insisting that the government must take responsibility and carry out its duty to relocate the “illegal occupants” from the area.
Referring to the long-pending issue, he said he avoids using terms such as Harijan Colony, Sweeper Colony or Punjabi Colony, as the use of such a nomenclature could complicate matters further if the issue goes to court.
The MLA revealed that during the 2023 Assembly elections, he did not seek votes from residents of the locality as he did not want to compromise his principles merely to secure electoral victory.
He said while some may label him as anti–non-tribals or communal, the message is clear that rights cannot be compromised. “There are times when we must speak about community issues, and there are times when we must speak on humanitarian grounds,” he added.
Nongrum remarked that he would not remain silent or compromise on the issue although he has not been included as a member of the high-level committee. He stressed that the government must not delay any further in relocating the residents, especially as the area requires special attention for development.
Expressing concern over the humanitarian aspect, he warned of serious health hazards, noting that the locality is essentially a slum. “Who will take responsibility if a major health crisis arises?” he asked.
He cautioned that repeated court interventions would reflect weakness in governance and urged the government to act decisively instead of waiting for judicial directions.
The High Court of Meghalaya has adjourned the relocation case until after the winter vacation, pending a decision in a connected matter before a division bench. Earlier, the court had urged an amicable settlement. The division bench later noted that negotiations are ongoing and scheduled the next hearing for February 2026, expressing hope for a settlement, failing which the appeal will be heard on merits.
