Jowai: Tensions escalated in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district after residents of Huroi and Lahalein villages staged a protest march to Jowai against the issuance of a Sanad by the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) to Jonny Suchen of Umpyrshin.
Hundreds of villagers, accompanied by local leaders, assembled in Jowai and held a brief meeting before heading towards the JHADC office to voice their objections.
Security personnel at the council premises, however, restricted entry and permitted only 10 representatives to proceed inside.
The delegation was unable to meet the Chief Executive Member, Deputy CEM, or their respective MDC as they were not present.
Instead, they held discussions with the council's secretary, who informed them that a tribunal would be set up on April 6 to look into the matter.
Voicing concern over the situation, village leaders called on the council to resolve the issue within the stipulated timeframe, cautioning that any untoward incident arising from the dispute would be the responsibility of the district council.
Sources indicated that the unrest is linked to the proposed High Speed Corridor project, which is expected to pass through the area, prompting strong opposition from local residents.