Shillong, August 6: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), Shillong Mihngi Circle, on Thursday said it has received a communication from the Director of the Urban Affairs Department regarding its complaint over the alleged illegal construction of a temple within the premises of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) office at Mawdiangdiang, which is situated on government revenue land.
According to the union, the communication informed that the New Shillong Township Development Agency (NSTDA) has issued a letter to the Deputy Inspector General and Head of Branch, CBI, Shillong, seeking an explanation regarding the construction.
The KSU stated that the NSTDA’s letter makes specific reference to the Lease Agreement signed between the agency and the CBI on November 14, 2018. It pointed out that Clause 10 of the agreement clearly prohibits the construction of any place of worship or alteration of existing structures on the leased land without prior approval from the NSTDA.
Describing the development as a significant step, the union said it reinforces its demand that all occupants of government land, including central government institutions, must strictly adhere to the law and the conditions laid down in lease agreements.
The KSU expressed confidence that the government and the concerned authorities would thoroughly examine the lease agreement and initiate appropriate legal action. It maintained that if the construction is found to be in violation of the lease conditions, the structure should be demolished in accordance with the law.
The union further alleged that the lease agreement permits only the construction of the approved office-cum-residential complex and does not allow any other structures. It claimed that this provision had been violated through the alleged unauthorised construction.
The KSU also urged the authorities to conduct a fair, transparent and expeditious inquiry into the matter and to take action strictly in accordance with the law and the terms of the lease agreement. It stressed that no individual or institution should be exempt from complying with laws governing the use of government land.
Clarifying its stand, the union said its campaign is not directed against any religion or community. Instead, it asserted that its objective is to uphold the rule of law and ensure that no individual or institution, particularly those from outside the state, can unlawfully claim or occupy public or revenue land in violation of existing laws and regulations.
The KSU affirmed that it would continue to closely monitor the matter and pursue the issue until appropriate action is taken.
