Shillong, September 17, 2026: The All Meghalaya Progressive Muster Roll Workers’ Union has formally withdrawn its membership and association from the Joint Action Committee (JAC), stating that it will no longer participate in any agitation or programme organised by the committee.
Union president N. Lanong announced the decision during a press conference at the Shillong Press Club on Thursday, saying it took effect from September 17.
Lanong said a new Executive Committee was constituted on September 4 and held its first meeting on September 9. During the meeting, the committee resolved to withdraw from the JAC and independently pursue the Union’s programmes and objectives.
He clarified that the Union had not dissolved the JAC but had only ended its association with the committee.
The newly constituted Executive Committee will focus on long-pending issues concerning muster roll workers employed under various State Government departments. These include delays in wage payments, implementation of the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF), maternity leave and other employment benefits.
Lanong alleged that muster roll workers in some departments, including the Public Health Engineering Department, had not received their wages for nearly four months.
“The mission of the new Executive Committee is clear—to assist weaker workers and take up the legitimate requirements and grievances of all muster roll employees working under the State Government,” he said.
The Union also expressed appreciation to the State Government for approving the upgradation of muster roll workers. However, it alleged that several departments had not implemented Cabinet decisions, government orders and official notifications related to the workers.
Lanong said the Union would approach the departments concerned with documentary evidence of the Cabinet’s approval and seek effective implementation of the decisions.
He assured muster roll workers that the Union would remain open to those seeking assistance and would work with employees across the state to take their grievances before the appropriate authorities.
The Union also acknowledged the contribution of leaders who had previously guided the muster roll workers’ movement and helped educate workers about their rights.
Lanong said the Union remained open to working with other muster roll workers’ unions in the future. For now, however, the All Meghalaya Progressive Muster Roll Workers’ Union will independently pursue its agenda and programmes.
