Shillong, August 25: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday hit back at Voice of the People Party (VPP) president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit over the party’s 10 demands to the MDA Government, urging the VPP to “practise what it preaches” on issues concerning land rights and the role of traditional institutions.

Replying in the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Sangma said the Government had neither ignored nor concealed the issues raised by the VPP and maintained that the administration remained committed to protecting public interest.

The Chief Minister said the Government follows a transparent and legally prescribed procedure when purchasing land for public projects. He explained that the value of land is first assessed to determine whether the price is reasonable before the proposal is placed before the Cabinet for a final decision.

“No department can purchase land independently. Every decision concerning land acquisition is taken collectively by the Cabinet,” Sangma said.

He cited the acquisition of land for the expansion of Shillong Airport and development of New Shillong Township as examples of projects undertaken through the prescribed process.

Sangma said the Government acquires land only for projects that can contribute to development and generate employment opportunities for the State’s youth.

At the same time, he acknowledged the emotional, cultural and traditional attachment of people to their land, saying the Government has sought to balance community rights with the need for development.

“The Government has never acted arbitrarily or purchased land secretly. Every action has been taken in accordance with established rules and procedures,” he said.

Conrad Questions VPP’s Stand in KHADC

While agreeing with Basaiawmoit that local communities and traditional institutions should be consulted on land-related matters, Sangma questioned the VPP’s own approach in the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC).

He referred to the Khasi Hills District Council Regulation and Administration of Land (Amendment) Bill, 2026, particularly the amendment to Section 16.

According to Sangma, the amendment seeks to remove the requirement for prior consultation with the Dorbar Shnong, Dorbar Raid and Dorbar Hima before decisions concerning land are taken.

The Chief Minister described the move as “unfortunate and disappointing”, arguing that it contradicted the VPP’s stated position on transparency, public participation and protection of traditional institutions.

“Our forefathers established these traditional institutions to provide safeguards and checks and balances in matters relating to land administration. This system has existed for generations and must not be weakened,” he said.

Turning the VPP’s own demands back on the party, Sangma urged its representatives in the KHADC to ensure that traditional institutions are involved in decision-making and that people are not excluded from matters concerning land.

“Please practise what you preach. Involve the traditional institutions and ensure that the people are not left out,” Sangma said.