SHILLONG, NOV 6: The East Jaintia Hills District Administration has reaffirmed its commitment to resolving industrial and transport-related issues through lawful dialogue, while cautioning that no group will be allowed to disrupt public movement or essential services.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the administration said that although every association has the right to raise genuine concerns, “no group will be permitted to take the law into their own hands, block public highways, or disrupt movement of essential goods and services.”

The clarification comes amid the ongoing strike called by the Meghalaya Commercial Truck Owners and Drivers Association (MCTODA) against cement factories operating in the district.

Despite multiple rounds of dialogue, MCTODA has refused to withdraw the strike, resulting in widespread disruption to essential transportation and public movement.

According to officials, MCTODA’s demands include enforcement of notified freight rates, prevention of overloading, priority loading for local trucks, designated parking areas, timely freight payments, and labour compliance.

The Jaintia Hills Cement Manufacturers Association (JHCMA), however, has maintained that all cement plants in the district have already implemented the Government of Meghalaya’s notified freight rates for intra-state transportation.

The primary point of contention remains MCTODA’s demand that these notified rates also apply to inter-state transport. The administration clarified that such a demand is beyond the legal authority of the State Government.

“No provision exists in the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, that allows any state government to notify transportation rates for inter-state routes,” the statement said. Inter-state freight charges are governed by market conditions, distance, and mutual agreement between consignor and transporter.

To maintain order, district police have taken lawful measures to clear blockades and ensure public safety. Meanwhile, the Jaintia Hills Truck Owners Association (JHTOA) and the East Jaintia Hills Truck Owners and Transporters Association (EJHTOTA) have expressed concern that their livelihoods are suffering due to the strike. Both groups have requested administrative assistance to ensure safe and uninterrupted movement of their vehicles.

Reiterating its stance, the administration stated:
“We are committed to resolving industrial and transport-related issues through lawful dialogue and coordination. We will continue to engage with all stakeholders to reach a fair and sustainable solution while upholding law and order and ensuring the free flow of traffic.”