Khliehriat, July 31: Hundreds of people from several villages gathered from the early hours of Friday to oppose the public hearing and the proposed limestone mining project of Shree Cement Limited in East Jaintia Hills District.

A heavy deployment of police personnel was observed at several locations to maintain law and order as protesters assembled to voice their opposition to the project. Tensions reportedly flared at certain points, with brief confrontations between demonstrators and security personnel.

Protesters alleged that the State Government was prioritising the interests of the company by deploying a large security presence to ensure that the public hearing proceeded as scheduled. They claimed that the authorities were using their powers to facilitate the hearing while disregarding the concerns and objections raised by local communities.

According to those opposing the project, the government’s actions reflected a greater emphasis on protecting the interests of an outside company than addressing the rights and aspirations of the indigenous people, despite what they described as widespread public opposition to the proposed mining project.

The demonstrators further alleged that the voices and concerns of local residents had been ignored for an extended period. They reaffirmed their commitment to continue their movement, stating that they would persist in opposing the project to safeguard their land, environment, and the rights of indigenous communities.

As of the time of publication, the State Government and Shree Cement Limited had not issued any official response to the allegations made by the protesters. The public hearing and the events surrounding it continue to be closely monitored amid heightened tensions in the district.