Shillong, May 7: Two social activists have moved Meghalaya Human Rights Commission (MHRC) against the alleged suspension of implementation of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) in Laitnongkseh village under Sohiong C&RD block for two years.
Enlang Sawian, who is the HYC education secretary and advocate, and Purningstar Shabong, a social activist, accused the Sohiong block development officer of not taking action on the matter.
They said the suspension was primarily attributed to complaints raised by two individuals Philstar Nongbri and Devius Lyngdoh and a few others who did not possess job cards, to the office of the BDO, against the construction of a motorable road from PWD to Mawshakad, as per the work orders on December 8, 2023 and April 23, 2024.
“The suspension of the MGNREGS scheme has had a dire consequence for the local population of Laitnongkseh village, particularly affecting those who are economically disadvantage and rely on this for their livelihood. The inability to access work through this 100-day employment scheme has left many families in distress, especially those who are already struggling financially,” the activists said.
“The Dorbar Shnong of Laitnongkseh village and the Village Employment Council (VEC) have made several attempts to engage with the BDO to discuss the ongoing suspension of the scheme. However, the BDO has not taken any substantial action or shown concern regarding the halt in the implementation of this vital scheme in the village for the last two years which has severely impacted the residents of Laitnongkseh,” they said.
The activists wanted the MHRC to investigate the reasons behind the BDO’s inaction and to issue a directive for resumption of the MGNREGS activities.
