Khliehriat, September 21, 2026: The Jaintia National Council (JNC) has halted construction work at the Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) at Kairang village in East Jaintia Hills district, alleging that hundreds of non-tribal workers from outside Meghalaya were engaged without the required documents.
The JNC Central Executive Committee, led by General Secretary Wanshwa Suting, conducted a surprise inspection of the construction site and raised objections over the employment of workers from outside the state.
According to Suting, the project is being executed by Badri Rai Company. He alleged that the company had brought in several hundred non-tribal labourers from outside Meghalaya and that many of them did not possess the required licences and registration documents.
Suting said non-tribal workers coming to Meghalaya for employment are required to obtain registration under the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), 2020. He also referred to requirements under the Jaintia Hills District Autonomous Council Trading by Non-Tribals Rules, 2015, including an Employee Service Licence.
The JNC leader acknowledged the importance of the EMRS project, stating that the school would provide residential facilities, sports activities, skill development and training opportunities, while also creating employment opportunities for local residents.
However, he questioned the employment of outside workers on a project under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, arguing that local residents should receive employment opportunities associated with the project.
Following the inspection, the JNC said it had directed that construction work involving the alleged undocumented non-tribal labourers be suspended, while local workers would be permitted to continue working.
The council also warned companies executing projects in the area against bringing workers from outside Meghalaya when local workers are available to undertake the work.
The allegations regarding the workers’ documentation and the employment arrangements were made by the JNC during the inspection; the contractor and relevant government authorities have not been quoted in the statement provided.
