Shillong, Oct 16: The fact-finding committee on Shree Cement project held a hearing here on Friday (Oct 16).
The committee is examining the representations submitted by various groups and individuals.
Speaking to reporters, Commissioner and Secretary in-charge of Home (Political) Cyril V D Diengdoh, who heads the panel, said the committee received representations both for and against the project.
“The terms of reference of the fact finding committee are in public domain. People have given representations both supporting the Shree Cement project and some have raised concerns. Based on that we have done the hearing today,” Diengdoh said.
15 groups deposed before the committee.
“More than 15 or 16 groups appeared. People who have represented wanted to be heard, so we heard them today. All the representations will be examined. There are many”, he said.
He dismissed allegations of a one-sided exercise, and said officials will also asked to submit reports.
“There is nothing one-sided. This is not the conclusion. All the facts will be examined, all the documents, all the reports from the Pollution Control Board, from the DC, from the SP, everything will be examined in toto,” he said.
According to Diengdoh, the hearing was meant for those who had submitted representations, including villagers and organisations, some of whom came to explain their support for the project.
Regarding the demands to hold the hearing at the project site, he said, “Whatever people have said in hearing, we have noted it down and we will act accordingly.”
The chairman of the panel said it was premature to comment on the merits of the case and that the next sitting is yet to be decided.
“Today we just had the hearing, so let us take it step by step. We will examine all the documents and facts and accordingly take a decision,” Diengdoh said.
