Raphael Warjri

 A coalition of public organisations from the Mawsynram region, accompanied by shnong leaders and local residents, has issued a two-week ultimatum to the Meghalaya Government demanding the cancellation of SAI Computer’s engagement in electricity distribution operations under the Mawsynram Division of the MePDCL.

The ultimatum followed a meeting with Power Minister Metbah Lyngdoh after the minister invited representatives of the groups for discussions on the matter.

Earlier in the day, members of the organisations and residents staged a protest outside the minister’s residence, voicing strong opposition to the government’s decision to entrust the electricity distribution work to the outside company.

Speaking to the media, Kynshain Rongsang, chairman of the federation of public organisations under the Mawsynram C&RD Block, said the groups had asked the government to revoke the company’s appointment for power distribution operations from Mawphlang to Rani within two weeks. He warned that failure to act within the stipulated period would compel the organisations and residents to intensify their agitation and march to Shillong.
Rongsang alleged that the company’s engagement had sparked widespread resentment among electricity consumers across the region.
Kyllang Thongni, meanwhile, appealed to consumers within the subdivision to withhold payment of electricity bills until the issue was resolved by the government. He said the appeal covered consumers from Mawphlang, Lyngkien and Mawsynram to Balat and Ranikor. He further alleged that the government’s decision to appoint SAI Computer was taken without consulting the three UDP legislators representing Mawphlang, Mawsynram and Ranikor constituencies.
Tlongpleng shnong minister Rock Kharlyngdoh alleged that several households which previously used minimal electricity were now receiving bills exceeding Rs 2,000 following the company’s takeover of operations. He claimed that some families had even been forced to sell portions of their land to clear electricity dues.

Jean Lamare also expressed concern over the alleged financial burden faced by consumers after SAI Computer assumed charge of the electricity distribution work.