CSOs question Meghalaya government on farmer’s market issue

Newmai News Network

Shillong | June 22

 

Civil society organisations (CSOs) and residents of the Jengjal region, under Dadenggre in West Garo Hills, have questioned the Meghalaya government on the delay in the finalization of the location of the Jengjal Farmers’ Market while also accusing it of attempting to shift the market to another location.

 

“We the combined organizations from the area comprising of the GSU, GSMC, ADE, FKJGP, AAYF, AHAM, AYWO, Mothers’ Union and the local Bazar Committee along with the general public strongly criticize the delay in solving the problem of the farmers market,” said A D Sangma, vice-president of combined NGOs of Jengjal on Monday.

 

He also said that a decision to shift the proposed Jengjal Farmers’ market from its original site was strongly opposed by organizations and public who want it to come up in the existing Jengjal market and that previously, public meetings and rallies were held to demand for the market to come up at the original site.

 

“We had a meeting with the Community and Rural Development department and were given an assurance that site inspection would take place within a week with consultation with the public. Several months have gone by and no intimation has come forward on the issue," A D complained Sangma.

 

He also criticized the local leaders and public representatives who have not extended their support to the public demand on the issue.

 

“The Centre has released the funds for the development project that benefits the public. We demand the project must come up at the existing site and will democratically oppose any move to shift the market site,” warned the organizations.