BJP, HITO demands closure of over 32 illegal coke factories in JH region

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 21, 2021

BJP leader and cabinet minister AL Hek on Monday sought action against illegal coke factories which are operating in the Jaintia Hills region.

Speaking to reporters, Hek informed that he has immediately written to the Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma for his intervention into the matter.

He said that the matter was brought to his notice by a delegation of the Hynniewtrep Integration Territorial Organization (HITO).  

According to him, there are 37 coke factories in Jaintia Hills of which only five have obtained proper licenses for operation while the rest are operating without valid licenses.

“Therefore, I have requested the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister to look into this matter and ensure all 32 illegal coke factories are not allowed to continue,” Hek said.

Earlier, HITO president Donbok Dkhar alleged that one of the illegal coke factories belong to the NPP working president Nidamon Chullet adding that former MLA Justice Dkhar and former MDC Thomas Nongtdu are also among the owners of the illegal coke factories.

Asked, Dkhar said that the information given was based on RTI findings of the organization. He said that the organization has demanded the state government to immediately close down all illegal coke factories in the Jaintia Hills region.

“If the state government fails to comply with the demand, we will be left with no option but to resort to non cooperation movement…,” he warned. The HITO leader informed that the health minister has assured to take up with the Chief Minister for taking necessary action on the matter.