SHILLONG — BJP leader and Pynthorumkhrah MLA A.L. Hek has drawn a clear line on the proposed relocation of residents from Them Iew Mawlong, saying government housing should be reserved for serving government employees.
Hek said the relocation of 342 families should not become a blanket demand for government accommodation, arguing that those currently employed by government departments should be given priority. He said he had raised the issue during the previous government as well, including while he was Health Minister. Hek recalled offering official quarters to Health Department employees living in the area.
“We were prepared then, and we remain prepared today,” Hek said, referring to the government accommodation that could be made available to eligible employees.
On the Gurdwara at Them Iew Mawlong, Hek said it should not be included in any relocation plan.
“A place of worship remains a place of worship. We must respect every faith,” he said, stressing that religious places should be treated with respect regardless of faith.
Hek said the BJP would support the state government in securing Defence land from the Centre for the relocation project, but maintained that government accommodation should be limited to active government employees.
“Non-government employees cannot demand housing from the state, and we will not accept that,” he said.
