By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Feb 17: Leader of Opposition Mukul M. Sangma on Tuesday expressed deep concerns over alleged benami transactions and illegal occupation of land in sensitive border areas of the state, and urged the government to order a probe.
Speaking in the Assembly, he referred specifically to areas in Ri-Bhoi district along the Guwahati border, including Byrnihat and stretches up to Jorabat, where, he alleged, land is being occupied and used under benami arrangements in the names of tribals.
He maintained that such practices defeat the very objective of protective land laws meant to safeguard indigenous ownership.
Stating that the matter carries long-term demographic, legal and administrative implications, Sangma urged the government to examine whether provisions under the Meghalaya Land Transfer Regulation Act are being misused or circumvented.
He said the issue was not new and recalled that during his tenure as the Chief Minister, certain areas had been kept outside the purview of specific exemption provisions for a period, underscoring the sensitivity of land governance in border regions.
Sangma asserted that land alienation in strategic areas cannot be treated lightly and called for stronger enforcement, transparency and accountability mechanisms to prevent further erosion of tribal land rights.
He urged the government to act decisively if irregularities are found.
In his reply, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said the government is working on creating land banks for development but insisted that all procedures are being followed lawfully.
He also emphasised the need to strengthen coordination between the Benami Act, the Land Transfer Act and other regulations to curb illegal holdings.
“If there is any illegal or benami transaction, the government will act strictly as per the provisions of the law,” he assured.
