Tension prevailed in Shillong, Meghalaya, on Tuesday after members of the Khasi Students’ Union intervened to shut down a structure at Lower Lumparing, alleging it was being used as an unauthorised place of worship.
The structure, identified as Lumparing Masjid, became the centre of the dispute after the student group claimed it had been set up without required permissions from local authorities.
Allegations of Illegal Construction
According to KSU’s Laban Circle leader Shiningstar Chyne, the building was constructed without approval from the local dorbar shnong or other concerned authorities. He also alleged that the land on which the structure stands is disputed and its ownership has not been clearly established.
Chyne said the site was originally meant to house a chowkidar for a nearby Muslim burial ground but was later converted into a mosque.
“Construction was carried out without permission, and the purpose of the structure was changed,” he claimed.
Imam Asked to Vacate Premises
During the intervention, KSU members asked the imam residing at the site to leave, alleging that he was staying there without authorisation and conducting religious activities.
The union also stated that the dorbar shnong had earlier inspected the site following complaints from local residents and had decided that the structure should be removed. However, no action was taken at that time.
Demand for Removal of Structure
The student body has now said it will escalate the matter and approach higher authorities to ensure the complete removal of the structure.
No official statement from the district administration was immediately available. While the situation remained tense in the area, there were no reports of violence.
