KHLIEHRIAT, May 22: The public hearing on the proposed limestone mining project of Shree Cement at Lum Syrman under Elaka Nongkhlieh in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district was called off on Friday after chaotic scenes, intense opposition, and mounting tension at the venue.
The hearing, organised by the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board, witnessed heavy resistance from groups opposing the proposed mining project, with large crowds gathering at the venue from the morning and refusing to allow the proceedings to continue. The situation rapidly escalated as slogans and protests intensified, creating tension across the area and forcing authorities to abandon the hearing in the interest of public order.
Officials present at the venue were unable to initiate the mandatory environmental public consultation process as agitated groups repeatedly disrupted arrangements and resisted attempts to proceed with the hearing. Tension further flared after chairs were allegedly hurled towards the area where officials were seated, triggering panic and confusion at the venue.
Soon after the announcement that the hearing had been cancelled, scenes of celebration erupted among sections opposing the project, with people dancing and cheering at the site. Protesters also demanded that the Pollution Control Board issue a formal written order confirming the cancellation of the hearing.
Earlier, in the morning a truck reportedly was set ablaze.
With the atmosphere turning increasingly volatile and security concerns mounting, the district administration announced that the public hearing would not be conducted.
Deputy Commissioner Manish Kumar said, “Due to the law and order situation in the region and since people are shouting too much we are not able to conduct the public has been called off. In the interest of peace, I have decided to call off the public hearing. I want to appeal to all the people of East Jaintia Hills to please maintain the peace, please raise your grievances through legal channel.”
Speaking to reporters later, he said, “Due to the law and order situation in the region and since people were shouting too much, we were not able to hold the public hearing today and it has been called off.”
