Shillong, Jan 17: Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, who also chairs the High-Level Committee (HLC) on the Harijan Colony relocation issue, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to resolving the matter amicably and outside the judicial system.

“We are focused on resolving this issue outside the courts. That’s why we’ve prepared a detailed blueprint outlining how the residents will be relocated, ensuring they have all the necessary amenities. Our aim is to avoid relocating them to an isolated or forested area; instead, we want to ensure they settle in a location that offers all essential facilities and where they can live peacefully,” Tynsong said.

The Deputy Chief Minister expressed hope that a mutually acceptable resolution would be reached soon. He added that the Harijan Panchayat Committee had requested the blueprint and that multiple discussions had been held. A new option surfaced following a meeting between a Sikh delegation and the Defense Minister in New Delhi, where they requested land from the Defense Ministry.

“After their meeting in Delhi, the Sikh delegation proposed using defence land near the petrol pump at Iewmawlong, known as Lum Survey. We welcomed this suggestion and subsequently wrote to the Defense Minister, requesting consideration for the proposal. The Chief Minister and I also met with Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh to discuss it. If approved, this would be a win-win situation, as it would negate the need to allocate government land for the relocation,” Tynsong explained.

The Deputy CM confirmed that the government is awaiting approval from the Defense Ministry. “If the ministry approves the proposal, we will engage with the Harijan Panchayat Committee to finalize the relocation. However, if the proposal is rejected, the state’s blueprint will be the only option available,” he said.

When questioned about the relocation of the 342 families to the Lum Survey land, Tynsong said, “It all depends on the approval. The land is suitable—it’s flat and not hilly. However, we cannot make any definitive statements until we receive the green light from the Defense Ministry.”

He further emphasized the government’s proactive approach to dealing with the issue. “We’ve proposed utilizing 2-2.5 acres of vacant, unutilized land near the petrol pump at Iewmawlong. If this is approved, the issue can be resolved quickly,” Tynsong added.

Regarding the relocation of religious institutions like the Sikh temple, Tynsong noted, “We haven’t yet reached that stage of discussion. However, we are trying to find land near the old location, as suggested by the Harijan Panchayat Committee. If we secure that, it would be ideal. If not, the state’s blueprint will be implemented.

Read: Govt. busy delivering development to worry about opposition’s allegations, says Dy CM Tynsong

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