Decision on Harijan Colony Relocation Expected by December: Deputy CM Dhar
First Published: 26th October, 2024 18:06 IST
The relocation plan was previously delayed following a request from the HPC, which proposed an alternative relocation to defense land.
Meghalaya’s Deputy Chief Minister for Urban Affairs, Sniawbhalang Dhar, has informed that the state government aims to finalize its decision on relocating 342 families from Harijan Colony in Them Iew Mawlong by the end of this year. With groundwork in place, Dhar shared that relocation efforts could conclude by late November, though a final decision is anticipated by December.
The relocation plan was previously delayed following a request from the Harijan Panchayat Committee (HPC), which proposed an alternative relocation to defense land. Dhar indicated that while discussions regarding defense land are ongoing, the government is prepared to proceed with the existing blueprint, which designates 2–3 acres of government-owned land for the relocation.
“If defense land becomes available, we will consider it as a way to preserve government resources,” Dhar stated, adding that the government remains ready to proceed with its own designated land if necessary.
Meanwhile, the Harijan Panchayat Committee (HPC) voiced strong objections to any plans that would involve demolishing religious institutions, particularly the 200-year-old Gurdwara, in connection with the relocation.
Gurjit Singh, HPC Secretary and Gurdwara President, emphasized the historical and cultural significance of these religious structures, asserting that the Sikh community would not accept their removal. Singh warned that any attempt to demolish the Gurdwara could provoke international protests from Sikhs worldwide.
The HPC further claims to hold legal documentation, including a patta, for the Gurdwara, temples, and schools in the area, which strengthens its stance against the demolition of these structures. While the HPC has shown willingness to consider the relocation of the community, they maintain that the Gurdwara and temples must remain in their current location.
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