SHILLONG, JUL 30: The Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organization (HITO) has urged the Meghalaya government to scrap the online auction plan for MEPDCL scrap materials and instead conduct it offline to protect local traders.
In a representation to the Minister In-Charge Power, HITO opposed the July 22 tender by MeECL/MEPDCL to sell scrap via the MSTC portal.
It said online auctions favor outside bidders with greater resources, making it difficult for indigenous and local entrepreneurs to compete.
The organization also questioned a tender clause requiring non-tribal bidders to hold an ADC trading license, saying it could be easily obtained by outsiders and fails to safeguard local interests.
HITO further asked the government to clarify the legal basis for using MSTC, stating no public notification makes it mandatory for MEPDCL.
It invoked the Sixth Schedule and called for policies that prioritize indigenous economic rights.
Signed by HITO President Donbok Dkhar and Political Secretary Gary Myrboh, the group warned it would “democratically and peacefully mobilize” if local concerns are ignored.
By Our Reporter
