SHILLONG: Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has assured that he would consider the state’s request to retain the office of Chief Commissioner of Customs and CGST in Shillong.
A statement from the Chief Minister’s Office said BJP leader and Cabinet Minister AL Hek met Jaitley in Delhi on Monday and gave him a letter from Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on the issue.
The Centre had decision to shift the office to Guwahati. Shillong has been the headquarters of the customs, central excise and service tax since its inception in the North East in 1948.
The Government of Meghalaya has allotted land measuring 15 acres for setting up of the office in New Shillong township.
Hek said Jaitley has assured to examine the matter.
Swadesh Darshan
Later in the day, Hek met Union Minister of State for Tourism Alphons Kannanthanam. He sought Rs 70 crore under ‘Swadesh Darshan’ scheme, which was announced before the Assembly elections.
“Leaders of different Christian denominations and Seng Khasi have approached me seeking support for improving amenities in religious destination of Meghalaya. I have sought sanction of funds that was promised to the people of the state,” Hek said and added that Kannanthanam has asked for proposals in this regard.
