Shillong, August 10: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), Shillong Mihngi Circle, on Monday sought clarification from the Meghalaya Urban Development Authority (MUDA) over the alleged construction of a religious structure inside the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) campus at Mawdiangdiang in New Shillong.

A delegation of the KSU met MUDA Director P.K. Boro, MCS, on August 10 and questioned whether permission had been granted for the construction of the structure on land belonging to MUDA.

Speaking to the media after the meeting at the KSU office at Lum Shyllong, KSU leaders, including President Banjoplang Dkhar and General Secretary Samuel, claimed that the land had been allotted for the construction of the CBI office and residential complex and not for establishing a religious structure.

The Union said it sought a clear response from MUDA on the terms and conditions under which the land was allotted to the CBI, and whether the structure in question was covered by the approved building plan or any permission granted by the Authority.

According to the KSU, the MUDA Director informed the delegation that the Authority would take up the matter with the concerned authorities and examine the issue.

The Union said it expects MUDA to act at the earliest and clarify whether there has been any violation of the conditions governing the use of the land.

KSU Demands Action if Construction Unauthorised

The KSU maintained that if the structure was constructed without the required permission or in violation of the purpose for which the land was allotted, appropriate action should be taken, including its removal in accordance with the law.

The Union also expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as the response and attitude of CBI authorities when its members had earlier attempted to raise the issue with them.

KSU leaders clarified that their objection was not directed against any particular religion, but was based on the principle that government or public land allotted for a specific official purpose should not be used for unauthorised religious construction.

The Union further claimed that video footage in its possession showed that the structure appeared to be a place of worship rather than merely a meditation facility, as had allegedly been suggested.

One-Week Ultimatum

The KSU has given the concerned authorities one week to take appropriate action and provide clarity on the matter.

It warned that if no satisfactory action is taken within the stipulated period, the Union would resort to democratic protest.

The KSU said the issue concerns the proper use of government land and adherence to the conditions under which land is allotted to government agencies. It urged the authorities to ensure that the same rules and regulations are applied equally to all.