Meghalaya Daily Mail (2025)

02/06/2024

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02/06/2024

The opposition Trinamool Congress (TMC) has intensified its call for an independent investigation into the collapse of the retaining wall at the PA Sangma Sports Complex and for the blacklisting of the contractor responsible for the project, Badri Rai and Company (BRC).

In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday, TMC state youth president Richard Marak asserted the necessity of a comprehensive probe conducted by an impartial body to uncover the truth and ensure accountability for those responsible. Marak emphasized that the Minister and Chief Minister, if necessary, must also be held accountable for the incident.

"Transparency, accountability, and the public good must be the guiding principles of governance. It is imperative to blacklist Badri Rai and Company (BRC) from future projects to prevent further mishaps," stated Richard Marak.

Highlighting the need for concrete actions over mere promises, Marak criticized the rampant collusion between BRC and the ruling Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government, which he claimed has compromised the state's integrity and accountability.

"The repeated collapse of the PA Sangma Stadium retaining wall underscores serious concerns about construction quality and oversight mechanisms," Marak continued. He also pointed to the recent confiscation of Rs 1 crore from a BRC official's vehicle during the Chief Minister's convoy, highlighting the urgency for transparency and accountability.

Furthermore, Marak criticized the mismanagement and lack of foresight evident in the construction of the stadium, which lacks adequate parking facilities despite its exorbitant cost of 172 crore rupees.

"Meghalaya's ambitious plans for infrastructure development, including stadiums and indoor facilities, are marred by a lack of genuine progress and development," Marak lamented. He emphasized the need for proper planning and ex*****on to address the needs of the people effectively.

02/06/2024

In a concerning revelation, BJP Vice-president Bernard Marak, (MDC) representing Tura, disclosed on Sunday that the government had neglected to address a previous First Information Report (FIR) filed regarding a stadium wall collapse.

Marak brought to light the government's inaction despite the FIR filed after an earlier incident of wall collapse at the PA Sangma Stadium. This failure to respond effectively raises serious questions about the government's commitment to ensuring public safety and accountability in infrastructure projects.

The recent collapse on June 2 has reignited concerns about the quality of construction work and adherence to safety standards. Marak highlighted evidence of shoddy workmanship and visible cracks in the newly constructed water tank adjacent to the stadium, emphasizing the potential risks to both local residents and the water supply system.

"It is deeply troubling that despite prior warnings and reports, the government has failed to take decisive action to prevent similar incidents from occurring," stated Bernard Marak. "There is an urgent need for a comprehensive investigation to determine the causes of these failures and hold accountable those responsible for oversight."

02/06/2024

In a devastating incident, three minors lost their lives on Saturday after consuming wild mushrooms in Saphai village, under Laskein C&RD Block, West Jaintia Hills District. Several others are currently in critical condition, battling the effects of mushroom poisoning.

According to District Police Chief Chemphang Syrti, three families in Saphai Village were affected by the poisonous mushrooms. They were rushed to MCH Hospital in Jowai by their family members for urgent medical treatment.

The first family affected includes mother Smt. Jumonlang Suchiang (43 yrs) and her 10-month-old son, who were referred to NEIGHRIMS in critical condition. Tragically, her sons Wansalan Suchiang (14), Kitlangki Suchiang (10), and daughter Riwanka Suchiang (8) succumbed to the poisoning at MCH Hospital in Jowai.

Syrti further elaborated that the second affected family consists of Ribaitki Shadap, Shanmi Shadap, and Sah Shadap, who are currently battling for their lives in critical condition at MCH Hospital in Jowai.

Similarly, the third family affected includes Over Sutnga, Anna Suchiang, and Niwanshwa Kanai, who are also in critical condition receiving treatment at MCH Hospital in Jowai.

This tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting authorities to issue warnings about the dangers of consuming wild mushrooms and urging residents to exercise caution. The authorities are conducting further investigations into the incident.

02/06/2024

A significant section of the wall at the PA Sangma Sports Complex, a prominent venue in the Garo Hills region, collapsed today. The complex, known for hosting various sporting events, now faces structural concerns following this incident.

01/06/2024

The Haflong-Jatinga and Lower Haflong roads are facing a serious problem with massive cracks, posing a significant risk to commuters. The extent of the damage can be seen in the pictures, highlighting the urgent need for repairs to ensure the safety of travelers.

01/06/2024

The A.chik Progressive Approach (APA) has raised concerns regarding the contractor responsible for the Williamnagar town upgradation project, questioning why the road construction has been halted without even reaching the halfway mark. This cessation has left Williamnagar in a deteriorated state, with roads and drainage systems unrepaired, leading to potholes and flooding, especially during the rainy season.

The project, which initially brought hope of smoother travel from Kusimkolgre Gate to MTC bus stand via the petrol pump, has only seen partial completion. While the right side of the town shows signs of progress, the left side remains plagued by waterlogged potholes. The road construction saw a brief period of intense activity but has since ceased, leaving the town’s residents in a state of frustration and disillusionment.

Several questions arise from this abrupt halt: Was the project stopped by state authorities? Did adverse weather conditions play a role? Or was it political pressure that brought the work to a standstill? The APA demands transparency from the contractor, asserting that blaming the rainy season is unjustified since construction ceased well before the rains began. If political interference is the cause, it is deemed a detrimental act against national development and progress.

Francis Marak, the president of APA, highlighted the broader implications of this halt, stating, "Indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics, must take measures for protection. The less measurable yet profound impact is a sapping of confidence across our land—a nagging fear that this setback heralds future frustration and decline for our state and its younger generation. The time has come to set aside childish things, to reaffirm our enduring spirit, choose a better history, and carry forward unity over hatred. We must end any misappropriation or false promises by political parties regarding development funds."

01/06/2024

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31/05/2024

Residents in several areas of Shillong are advised to brace for a planned power outage from 10 am to 4 pm on June 1, as announced by the Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Limited (MPDCL). The affected areas encompass a significant portion of the city, including Mawprem, Upper Mawbah, Lower Mawbah, and many others.

The scheduled interruption in power supply is attributed to essential preventive maintenance work on the 132/33 KV Mawlai grid sub-station and the 33/11 KV sub-stations. However, the corporation assures residents that if the maintenance work concludes ahead of schedule, power may be restored before the stipulated time.

Affected residents are urged to make necessary arrangements to mitigate any inconveniences caused by the temporary power cut. Stay tuned for updates from MPDCL regarding the restoration of power supply in the affected areas.

30/05/2024

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30/05/2024

A Maruti Alto met with a tragic accident near Rongkhon Bridge in Rongkhon on Thursday afternoon, plunging into a gorge and leaving the driver severely injured.

The incident occurred around 5:00 pm, prompting immediate response from traffic personnel upon receiving reports of the accident. Upon arrival at the scene, it was discovered that a car bearing registration number ML-13-7349 had veered off the road and fallen into the gorge at Rongkhon bridge.

The driver of the vehicle, whose identity has not been disclosed, was found to be severely injured and was rushed to Civil Hospital, Tura, for urgent medical treatment. The extent of the injuries sustained by the driver remains unknown at this time.

Authorities have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine the cause of the unfortunate incident.

30/05/2024

In response to the adverse weather conditions prevailing in the state, North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) has announced the postponement of undergraduate theory examinations for Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Commerce students across all affiliated colleges. Additionally, the LLB theory examination for Labour Law-II has been postponed. Meanwhile, schools and colleges in West Jaintia Hills and East Jaintia Hills will remain closed tomorrow due to the incessant rainfall and strong winds.

NEHU has taken proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of students amidst the adverse weather conditions by postponing undergraduate theory examinations scheduled for tomorrow. The affected examinations include Alternative English (Arts and Commerce), Modern Indian Language (Arts and Commerce), and English-II for English Honours students. The LLB theory examination for Labour Law-II has also been deferred.

Furthermore, NEHU has assured students that a fresh date for the postponed examinations will be announced shortly, allowing students ample time to prepare once weather conditions improve.

In addition to the academic adjustments made by NEHU, schools and colleges in West Jaintia Hills and East Jaintia Hills districts have decided to remain closed tomorrow due to the persistent rainfall and strong winds. This precautionary measure aims to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff members amid challenging weather conditions.

The decision to postpone examinations and close educational institutions underscores the priority placed on the safety and well-being of students and educators. By taking proactive steps in response to adverse weather conditions, NEHU and educational authorities in Jaintia Hills districts are demonstrating their commitment to safeguarding the academic interests and physical safety of the student community.

30/05/2024

The Mawkyrwat Civil Hospital in South West Khasi Hills is grappling with a critical power outage, posing a grave risk to the lives of patients as generators remain absent and the inverter batteries have run dry after continuous usage for two days. Medical staff, forced to work in darkness using flashlights and candles, are struggling to provide adequate care amid the dire situation.

The absence of electricity at the Mawkyrwat Civil Hospital has plunged the facility into chaos, jeopardizing patient care and safety. With no backup generators available and the inverter batteries depleted, medical staff are unable to carry out essential medical procedures and treatments effectively.

Concerned medical staff have expressed frustration over the dire circumstances, emphasizing the urgent need for immediate intervention to restore power supply to the hospital. Patients and their attendants, navigating through the darkness, are facing immense hardship and uncertainty as they await resolution to the crisis.

In response to the crisis, the Khasi Students Union (KSU) has taken proactive steps to address the issue, meeting with the Medical Superintendent to convey their concerns. KSU district sports secretary, Pauldeep Tongwah, underscored the importance of uninterrupted power supply in healthcare facilities, stressing that the hospital's ability to deliver essential clinical care should not be compromised.

Tongwah highlighted the union's previous efforts to address the power shortage issue, including meetings with Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh to seek intervention in procuring a generator for the hospital. Despite repeated appeals, no action has been taken, leaving the hospital vulnerable to power disruptions during emergencies.

While power disruptions in the district have been attributed to adverse weather conditions, residents and stakeholders emphasize the need for authorities to prioritize essential institutions like hospitals and ensure uninterrupted power supply. The current crisis at the Mawkyrwat Civil Hospital serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for proactive measures to safeguard public health and safety.

30/05/2024

The tranquil village of Lapangap, nestled along the Meghalaya-Assam border in West Jaintia Hills, was rocked by tragedy as the lifeless body of 31-year-old farmer Tellme Talang was discovered in his field. Talang, who had gone to tend to his crops early in the morning, was found brutally murdered with injuries to his head and mouth, sending shockwaves through the community.

According to reports, Talang had set out to his field at 5 a.m. yesterday morning but failed to return home by nightfall. Concerned family members ventured to the farm the following day, only to be met with the grisly sight of Talang's lifeless body. Deimon Lyngdoh, Waheh Shnong of Lapangap, recounted the harrowing discovery and promptly informed the authorities about the incident.

Local law enforcement authorities have sprung into action, swiftly registering a case and initiating efforts to apprehend the perpetrators of this heinous crime. The motive behind Talang's murder remains unclear, leaving the community reeling with shock and grief over the untimely loss of a beloved member.

The murder of Tellme Talang serves as a grim reminder of the prevalent security challenges faced by rural communities along the Meghalaya-Assam border. Residents are left grappling with fear and uncertainty as they await justice for Talang and seek reassurance in the wake of this tragic incident.

As investigations continue, authorities are urged to expedite efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore a sense of safety and security to Lapangap and its surrounding areas. The community stands united in solidarity, rallying behind Talang's family in their quest for truth and accountability.

30/05/2024

In a significant anti-poaching operation, the Customs (Preventive) team in Shillong, in collaboration with Biswanath police and forest authorities, recovered 27.992kg of illegally smuggled elephant tusks in Biswanath Chariali, Assam. The operation marks a crucial step in combating wildlife trafficking and enforcing wildlife protection laws.

Acting on specific intelligence, customs officers launched a coordinated operation with local law enforcement and forest officials, resulting in the interception of one individual and the confiscation of four cut pieces of elephant tusks. The tusks, belonging to the Indian (Asian) Elephant species, are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act (WLPA), 1972, and were seized under Section 50 of the Act.

The recent amendments to the Wildlife Protection Act, effective from April 1, 2023, have empowered customs authorities with enhanced powers to crack down on the domestic illegal wildlife trade. Leveraging these provisions, customs officers have intensified efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and protect endangered species.

Over the past year, the Commissionerate of Customs (Preventive), NER, has made several significant seizures, including 68.87 kg of pangolin scales, 11.536 kg of Ambergris (Whale vomit), and 360g of elephant tusks. Additionally, seizures of protected exotic species such as Hornbills, Flame bowerbirds, and a baby orangutan have been made in operations spanning Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Assam.

The recent seizure of elephant tusks underscores the persistent threat posed by wildlife trafficking and the ongoing efforts of customs authorities to curb illegal activities. By collaborating with law enforcement agencies and forest departments, customs officials are committed to safeguarding wildlife and upholding conservation laws.

30/05/2024

The College of Community Science, CAU(I) Tura, observed the International Day of Potato with a special focus on supporting small-scale and family farming production, particularly among rural women farmers. The event aimed to promote food security, reduce hunger and poverty, and encourage the sustainable use of biodiversity.

In commemoration of the International Day of Potato, the College of Community Science organized a gathering of 55 participants, including farmers, students, faculty, and non-teaching staff. The event served as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of potato farming in improving livelihoods and ensuring food security, especially in rural communities.

Highlighting the significance of potatoes in addressing hunger, malnutrition, and poverty, participants engaged in discussions and activities focused on sustainable agricultural practices and the conservation of biodiversity. The event emphasized the role of small-scale and family farming in contributing to local economies and empowering rural farmers, particularly women.

As part of the celebration, farmers were provided with vegetable seeds and vermicompost to support their agricultural endeavors and enhance productivity. This initiative aimed to equip farmers with resources to improve crop yields and promote environmentally friendly farming techniques.

The College of Community Science's commemoration of the International Day of Potato underscores its commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture and empowering rural communities. By fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders, the event contributes to efforts aimed at achieving food security and advancing the well-being of farmers.

30/05/2024

The Meghalaya unit of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) recently paid a courtesy visit to the newly-appointed Director General of Police, Idashisha Nongrang. Led by state secretary Tengku M Marak, the delegation discussed various student-focused initiatives undertaken by the ABVP and received assurances of cooperation from the Meghalaya Police.

The ABVP delegation, comprising state secretary Tengku M Marak, state joint secretary Bomsing Khongtir, and national executive council member Promila Tham, met with DGP Nongrang to discuss the organization's activities and contributions to student welfare in Meghalaya and beyond.

During the meeting, Marak highlighted the ABVP's role as the world's largest student organization and emphasized its commitment to shaping the youth and students of India. The delegation elaborated on the ABVP's initiatives aimed at fostering leadership, promoting education, and addressing student concerns at both local and national levels.

In response, DGP Nongrang expressed her appreciation for the ABVP's efforts and assured the delegation of the Meghalaya Police's support in future endeavors focused on the positive development of students. The collaboration between the ABVP and law enforcement authorities reflects a shared commitment to promoting the well-being and aspirations of the student community in Meghalaya.

30/05/2024

A recent revelation regarding the deletion of 48 members from the Rongribo Chibolgre Village Employment Council (VEC) in Meghalaya has sparked controversy and accusations of malpractice. Concerned citizen Dreambirth Sangma has raised serious concerns about the deletion process, alleging discrepancies and malicious alterations in the information provided by government officials.

In a series of Right to Information (RTI) requests, Sangma uncovered troubling inconsistencies in the reasons cited for the deletion of VEC members. Despite regulations requiring unanimous resolutions by all VEC members for deletions, Sangma discovered that four members, including his own father and brother, were removed without proper authorization. Furthermore, Sangma's investigation revealed that meetings purportedly held to discuss membership deletions were non-existent, raising suspicions of backdated resolutions.

The RTI responses provided by the Block Development Officer also raised red flags, with contradictory explanations given for the deletions of certain members. Sangma highlighted instances where reasons were altered between RTI replies, indicating a deliberate attempt to mislead and undermine the integrity of the information provided.

Additionally, Sangma voiced concerns about attempts to suppress his freedom of speech and expression, citing repercussions he faced for previous activism. He referenced a case filed against him for raising concerns about construction projects, emphasizing the importance of upholding truth and transparency in public discourse.

In light of these revelations, Sangma called for a thorough investigation into the deletion of VEC members and the alleged misinformation provided by government officials. He emphasized the need for accountability and the protection of citizens' rights to access accurate information and express dissent.

Meghalaya Daily Mail

02/06/2024

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