Northeast Desk, 27th April: The Meghalaya Government is gearing up for a pivotal meeting scheduled for May 7 with the Harijan Panchayat Committee (HPC) to address the prolonged issue of relocating the Harijan Colony, announced Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar. This meeting marks the culmination of discussions before a final decision is reached, with DCM Dhar expressing optimism about the outcome. Overseeing the Urban Affairs department, Dhar reiterated the government’s dedication to expediting negotiations with the HPC regarding the proposed relocation of the Sweepers’ Colony.
The relocation of 342 families from the Harijan colony has been a persistent concern, emphasized by the Meghalaya High Court during a July 2023 hearing, deeming the matter unresolved for too long. Initially rebuffed by the HPC, the relocation blueprint gained traction in June of the previous year, with the committee reportedly agreeing in principle to the government’s proposal, although modifications were proposed.
Advocate-General Amit Kumar affirmed the HPC’s acceptance of the blueprint, albeit with suggested alterations. The proposed plan entails allocating 2.14 acres of land within the existing municipal board building for resettlement, supplemented by an additional 1.4 acres opposite the current area, totaling 3.6 acres for relocation.
The Harijan Colony, also known as Them Lew Mawlong, has been a focal point of legal proceedings and discussions due to challenges in living conditions, infrastructure, and sanitation. These issues prompted intervention from the Meghalaya High Court, underscoring the urgency of resolving the prolonged relocation matter.
While initially met with opposition from the HPC, the government’s persistent efforts have yielded progress, with a shift in stance observed in June of the previous year. The government’s commitment to resolving this issue dates back to June 4, 2018, with the formation of a high-level committee to review relevant records related to the colony’s relocation, spearheaded by then Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong.
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