Shillong, Nov. 4: The Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC), Sohiong Circle, has taken up concerns related to alleged illegal demands for money from landowners who have voluntarily donated their land for the Western Bypass Road project.

A delegation led by Bah Phurningstar Shabong, President of the HYC Sohiong Circle, met Superintendent of Police, East Khasi Hills, Bah Vivek Syiem, IPS, seeking clarity on reports that certain individuals were allegedly exploiting landowners by demanding payment in connection with the project.

According to the HYC, several landowners approached the organisation with complaints that some people were taking undue advantage of the situation by demanding money, despite the fact that the landowners had not sought any compensation and had willingly offered their land for the developmental initiative.

Bah Phurningstar Shabong emphasized that as a social organisation, the HYC cannot remain silent on issues that undermine public development and tarnish the goodwill of citizens who have come forward voluntarily for the community’s benefit.

Responding to the concerns, SP Vivek Syiem assured the delegation that the matter would be treated with due seriousness and that necessary action would be taken against anyone found involved in illegal or exploitative activities.

The HYC Sohiong Circle further urged the government to keep a close watch on officials associated with the project to ensure that landowners are not misled or deceived by unscrupulous individuals.