Raphael Warjri

The Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO) has urged the Meghalaya Government to review the decision of the Meghalaya Power Distribution Corporation Limited (MePDCL) to auction scrap materials through an online e-auction platform, claiming the move would adversely affect the livelihood and business prospects of indigenous traders in the state.

In a representation submitted to the authorities, HITO objected to the Short Tender Notice issued on July 22 for the disposal of scrap materials through the MSTC e-auction platform. The organisation argued that conducting the auction online would provide an unfair advantage to financially stronger bidders from outside Meghalaya, thereby reducing opportunities for local traders.

The organisation sought the immediate suspension of the proposed online auction and demanded that the bidding process be conducted offline to ensure equitable participation by indigenous entrepreneurs. It also questioned Clause A(3) of the tender, which permits non-Scheduled Tribe bidders possessing trading licences issued by Autonomous District Councils to participate, alleging that the provision weakens safeguards meant to protect local businesses.

HITO further sought clarification on the legal and policy basis for adopting the MSTC platform, claiming that no government order or notification mandating its use has been made public. It called on the government to disclose any such directives, if they exist.

Invoking the constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule, the organisation asserted that state-owned assets should primarily benefit the people of Meghalaya and urged the government to protect the economic interests of indigenous traders. HITO also warned that it would be compelled to launch peaceful and lawful democratic protests if its concerns were not addressed.