“Frustration over the deteriorating Imphal–Jiribam Highway has peaked, with local organizations and shopkeepers issuing a 48-hour ultimatum to resume stalled construction. Despite orders from the Deputy Commissioner and initial progress, work has now been halted for five days, worsening travel conditions and dust pollution. Residents, led by Patsoi Langjing Bazar Board Secretary Ng Noren, demand urgent action, warning authorities of intensified protests if repairs do not resume immediately.”
Six Kuki tribal organizations, including the Kuki Students’ Organisation (KSO), have urged the Meitei community to refrain from crossing the buffer zone into Kuki-Zo-Hmar areas, citing concerns over tensions regarding Ching Kaba at Thangting or Thangjing Hills. The groups emphasized that until a political settlement is reached under the Indian Constitution, any movement into their jurisdiction would be opposed. Meanwhile, curfew in Churachandpur district was relaxed for over 16 hours as law and order improved, following earlier tensions between Zomi and Hmar tribes over community flag hoisting in a disputed area.”
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced that eleven additional miners are set to receive permits to commence scientific coal mining in the state. Currently, three miners have already begun operations following guidelines issued by the Ministry of Coal. The government aims to address environmental concerns while ensuring economic growth and safety. The new mining activities will primarily focus on East Jaintia Hills and West Khasi Hills, with plans to expand operations soon.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has announced the upcoming expansion of scientific coal mining in Meghalaya, with 10 to 11 additional sites expected to receive clearance soon. Three mines are already operational, following approval from Coal India and the Coal Ministry. While some transportation challenges remain, the shift toward regulated mining aims to enhance economic growth, ensure environmental safeguards, and align with sustainable development goals.
On Saturday, minority tribal leaders in Meghalaya formed the Regional Council Demand Committee (RCDC) to strengthen the push for a regional council representing indigenous minority tribes. The RCDC, led by Dr. K.C. Boro (Chairman), Ananda Koch (General Secretary), and Promod Koch (Advisory Board Chairman), aims to work closely with the Meghalaya Indigenous Minority Tribals Forum (MIMTF), which has submitted several memoranda to authorities advocating for this demand. The RCDC emphasizes being a public body, free of political affiliations, and represents tribes such as the Hajong, Koch, Rabha, Boro-Kachari, Mann, and Karbi. Fifty-four members attended the meeting where the RCDC was officially formed.
The Silchar-Saurashtra East-West Corridor, a vital infrastructure project, is nearing completion with a revised deadline of June 2027. Despite delays in Assam and West Bengal, the government is taking measures to expedite progress. This corridor will enhance connectivity for North Eastern states and strengthen links to international borders.
Barak Bolchhe!
