Meghalaya: Tension in East Jaintia Hills as Shree Cement public hearing held amid protests

Tension prevailed in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district during the public hearing for Shree Cement’s proposed Lum Syrman Limestone Mining Block-A project, with protests and clashes reported at several locations despite the hearing being conducted successfully.

The public hearing witnessed opposition from some groups, while several local leaders expressed support for the proposed project, citing its potential to generate employment and contribute to regional development.

Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong clarified that the public hearing was a statutory requirement and did not amount to approval of the mining project. He said all environmental norms and legal procedures would be followed before any further decision was taken.

Meanwhile, police reportedly fired tear gas near Umpleng Market after members of the Hynniewtrep Students’ Youth Front (HSYF) allegedly attempted to prevent people described as outsiders from attending the public hearing.

The HSYF alleged that police used force during the confrontation. However, an official statement on the incident was awaited.

Tension also escalated near Lad Tongseng, where people travelling to attend the public hearing were allegedly stopped after a section of the road was reportedly dug up.

The Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU) alleged that its ambulance and medical team were attacked while attempting to provide assistance to people injured during the unrest.

Despite the protests and disruptions, officials said the public hearing was completed in accordance with the prescribed legal process.