SHILLONG, Dec 12: In a landmark move aimed at providing long-awaited security and dignity to long-time settlers, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday handed over periodic land lease documents to more than 750 families residing on government land across eight localities of Tura town.
The residents—many of whom have lived for decades on encroached land—have long struggled to access basic amenities and official documentation due to the absence of land rights. The new leases cover 452 bighas (149.5 acres) of government land, allotted on a 30-year renewable lease.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chief Minister grew emotional as he recalled the late PA Sangma’s commitment to the settlers. “He would always say, ‘Who are these people living on government land? They are our people, and we must help them,’” he said, pausing as tears welled up. Conrad added that fulfilling this promise was a continuation of his father’s vision to prioritise community welfare.
He highlighted the hardships faced by the residents, including the lack of approach roads, electricity, water supply, and the difficulty in acquiring essential documents such as caste and birth certificates. “When I contested elections in Tura, people from these localities again raised the same concerns. It was not easy, but with persistent effort, we found a solution,” he said.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the decision was not politically motivated. “I could have taken this step before the elections, but our intention was to genuinely serve the people,” he asserted. He urged families to accept the land documents and pay the nominal lease charges, noting that the government will not evict anyone under his tenure but cannot guarantee the stance of future administrations.
The lease amount has been fixed at ₹2,000 per bigha, with each household eligible for up to 0.69 bigha (10,000 sq. ft) of land. Conrad also announced exemptions for church premises and graveyards and directed the Deputy Commissioner to expedite allotments through due procedure.
The land settlement initiative began in 2023–24 and was formally approved by the state cabinet on November 26, 2025. The mapping of all eight localities—Dakopgre Ronggi Songgital, ITI Upper Matchakolgre, Meghalaya Survey School locality, Sepoy Colony DC Office locality, Deringgagre, Chinap Aslang, and Nikwatgre—was carried out through a joint survey involving multiple government agencies.
Cabinet Minister Marcuise N. Marak was present at the ceremony, which many residents described as a “historic moment” ending generations of uncertainty.
