Shillong, June 2: The Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC) has warned of vehement protests if the state government goes ahead with the proposed leasing out of the distribution circles of the Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Limited (MePDCL) for 25 years to a company called RECPDCL.

HYC general secretary Roy Kupar Synrem said they will “not let anyone sell out MeECL to an outside parties either for a long term or short term period and will take all steps necessary in this regard.”

“We warn the government not to take any decision which is anti-people and anti-youth of the state and especially during this time where we are all fighting this war against COVID-19 as we will not be mute spectators to such an act and will protest vehemently,” Synrem stated.

According to him, the areas proposed to be handed over to RECPDCL are- Shillong Central Distribution Circle – areas under this Circle includes the entire Shillong areas and adjoining areas under East Khasi Hills District, and Eastern Distribution Circle – areas under this Circle includes the entire Jowai both Urban and Rural areas.

This would translate to RECPDCL being responsible for providing electricity to every hold including billing and revenue collection, all operation and maintenance, consumer support and care.

“In short, the above areas under MePDCL have been proposed to be sold off to RECPDCL for a period of 25 years from the date of execution of the contract,” he said while adding that the terms and condition of this contract also allow RECPDCL to further sub contract this franchisee to any other party.