By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 29: Laban-Mawprem independent MDC Ricky Shullai on Friday slammed the Shillong Municipal Board (SMB) for floating tenders to construct roads, footpaths, and drains in several urban KHADC constituencies, terming it a violation of the Sixth Schedule.
Speaking to reporters after meeting KHADC Chief Executive Member (CEM) Shemborlang Rynjah, Shullai said it was unprecedented for the municipal board to implement schemes meant for urban MDC constituencies falling under the Sixth Schedule area.
He revealed that he had come across a tender floated by the SMB on Thursday, which included construction of a motorable road and drain under Jaiaw MDC constituency, and footpath and drain works in Mawkhar–Pynthorumkhrah, Laban-Mawprem, and Laitumkhrah-Malki MDC constituencies.
Calling the move unacceptable, Shullai said, “This is an insult to the electorate who elected us to represent them in the KHADC, an autonomous body under the Sixth Schedule.”
He pointed out that the decision came even as discussions between the KHADC and the state government on the allocation of schemes under the 15th Finance Commission were still ongoing. He added that both the KHADC Executive Committee and he, at a personal level, were in consultation with the government regarding confusion over the allotment of schemes in urban constituencies.
Expressing concern, Shullai warned that the SMB’s action poses a serious threat to the authority of the Council. “By allowing schemes meant for the people of the MDC constituencies in the Sixth Schedule areas to be handed over to an outside body, the powers of the Council are being sidelined,” he said.
Reaffirming his stand, Shullai stated, “As an MDC elected from the 15 Laban-Mawprem Constituency, I strongly oppose this manner of functioning. I have taken this issue seriously and urged the CEM of the KHADC to immediately intervene and seek clarification from the state government.”
He assured his constituents and the public at large that he would continue to safeguard the powers and essence of the District Council. He further added that he would ensure schemes meant for the people are not diverted or taken away.
