Shillong, April 8: Tension has escalated between the Dorbar Shnong Golflink and the Shillong Club after the shnong moved to lock public entry points and accessible areas of the Shillong Golf Course.

The action comes in response to repeated complaints from local residents who frequent the area for morning walks. Residents have alleged that the Shillong Club, which manages the golf course, has been charging entry fees for access, describing the move as unfair and a violation of their right to use what they consider a public space.

Acting on these grievances, the Dorbar Shnong Golflink, led by Rangbah Shnong Bah Michael Hek, along with support from the Seng Longkmie, Seng Samla, and local elders, locked all public entry points to the golf course to safeguard community interests.

Speaking to the media, Bah Hek asserted that the Shillong Club is only a lessee and not the owner of the land, accusing it of behaving as though it holds ownership rights. He further alleged that the club has been indiscriminately collecting entry fees from morning walkers despite the area being meant for free public access.

He also raised questions regarding whether the club holds a valid trading licence for such activities and pointed out that earlier notices issued by the shnong seeking dialogue had gone unanswered.

“The Shillong Club continues to misuse its authority while disregarding shnong laws and the rights of the people,” Bah Hek stated, warning that stronger action could follow if the issue remains unresolved.

The Dorbar Shnong Golflink maintained that locking the entry points was a necessary step to protect the rights of residents and reiterated its demand that public access be respected without any imposition of fees.