BJP opposes introduction of Central Bonded Warehouse in Meghalaya

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TURA

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has raised objections to the introduction of a Central Bonded Warehouse (CBW) in Meghalaya, calling the proposal "controversial" and rife with loopholes that benefit only a few with political connections.

In a press release issued by BJP state President Ernest Mawrie, the party stated that centralising the bonded warehouse will not benefit the 44 bond owners in Meghalaya but will benefit only four owners who will control the entire system of supply.

"The CBW system was abolished in Rajasthan when the BJP government found that it was not helping the needs of the state as only a few were benefiting out of it," Mawrie said in a press communique.

The Meghalaya Cabinet on Tuesday adopted the proposal for introduction of the Central Bonded Ware House and creation of new rule 211 (a) in the Meghalaya Bonded Ware House Rules. "This will ensure that the revenue collection is from one source," Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma had stated.

The BJP president observed that the CBW is often controlled by some individuals who make a maximum profit for their political bosses ultimately leading to the mafia system of functioning.

"We do not want Meghalaya to become a mafia-ruled state as it is turning into one with scams erupting right from councils, coal, electricity bills, etc,” Mawrie said.

The BJP believed that CBW would turn into another episode of corruption and destruction of the state.

“CBW was also abolished in UP (Uttar Pradesh) due to similar reasons like Rajasthan, so why is Meghalaya interested in following the controversial centralisation of bonded warehouses? We strongly oppose this decision and we would go to any end to counter the decision of the Conrad-led government in introducing CBW,” they added.

The party further threatened that officials involved in introducing CBW will also be dealt with all legal proceedings as "the party felt it was not the mandate of the public but (a) few corrupt-thinking leaders and officials who want to turn Meghalaya into a mafia-run society."