KSU demands demolition of illegal structures, eviction of settlers from Mahadevkhola
Shillong, Aug 3: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has demanded eviction of illegal settlers from Mahadevkhola.
A joint inspection of the area was carried out by Forest Ranger SM Lyngdoh and activists of the KSU Laban Circle, on Thursday.
The president of the KSU Laban circle, Reuben Najiar warned of constructing houses for landless indigenous people on forest department’s land in the area if the state government fails to take any action.
The union, quoting the reply of RTI query, also cited violation of a 1929 agreement, which only permits the construction of a mandir.
Before carrying out the inspection, the KSU also submitted a memorandum to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Head of Forest Force (HoFF) RS Gill for necessary action.
Though the forest officials said that they are conducting a survey as they don’t have a statistical report on how many illegal settlers are there, as per the findings of the Union, there are over 30-40 illegal settlers having a population of 150-200 .
The KSU leader pointed out wastes from illegal households being released directly to Umjasai river, which is one of the important sources of drinking water for the people of Lawsohtun.
“Now, the river is being polluted in the absence of proper waste disposal. Therefore, we demand the forest department to take immediate action against all illegal settlers and demolish all illegal structures that have been constructed without obtaining necessary permission”, the KSU said.
