From Our Correspondent
MAWKYRWAT, Jan 18: Four villages — Ranikor, Kensohsan, Khadphra, and Pamdaba — have decided to abstain from participating in the upcoming Ranikor Beach Festival 2024, scheduled for January 19-20.
The Myntris (headmen) of Ranikor, Kensohsan, and Khadphra villages, along with the Mulor (headman) of Pamdaba village, conveyed their decision through a letter to The Officer’s Club, which is organisng the event. They claimed that the festival offered minimal benefits to the local populace.
One of the Myntris told The Shillong Times that the villages were officially informed just a day before the event, raising concerns about insufficient time for preparations. Additionally, discontent arose over the purported allocation of stalls to locals, where only a few received the promised 90% contrary to expectations.
In previous editions of the festival, locals were actively involved, constructing huts for night stays that brought tangible benefits to the community. However, this year, The Officer’s Club opted for their tents, depriving the locals of potential gains.
The Myntri emphasised a departure from past practices where The Officer’s Club collaborated with local authorities for successful event planning. This time, the communities claimed they were not consulted, leading to their decision to disengage.
While clarifying that they do not oppose the festival and welcome everyone to attend, the Myntri expressed concerns about potential unfortunate incidents. They highlighted the local authority’s desire to avoid responsibility for problems arising from the festival and asserted their decision not to participate in this year’s Ranikor Beach Festival.
The festival, organized by The Officer’s Club, South West Khasi Hills District, in collaboration with the Tourism, Arts & Culture and Sports & Youth Affairs Department, Government of Meghalaya, aims to boost tourism in the region.