TURA, March 6: With various civil society organisations of Garo Hills once again renewing their demand for Winter Capital in Tura, the Achik State People’s Forum (ASPF) has condemned, what they term, the silence of Garo legislators over the issue in the ongoing Budget session.
“The issue has been a long-standing demand of the people of Garo Hills, represents a fundamental need for the region’s growth and development. It is a glaring missed opportunity for our elected representatives to stand up and advocate for the interests and welfare of their constituents,” said ASPF through a press communiqué.
“The absence of any substantial or vocal support from Garo legislators during the Budget Session 2025 is not only surprising but also troubling. The people of Garo Hills, who have long been advocating for the creation of a Winter Capital, expected their representatives to be the strongest voice for this proposal. Instead, the silence from our elected officials is nothing short of a betrayal.
Their failure to speak up in favour of the Winter Capital is a stark indication of a lack of commitment to the development and well-being of the region they represent,” they added.
Acknowledging the complexity of the matter at hand, ASPF felt it was incumbent upon the legislators to prioritise the needs of their people.
“It is essential to remind our legislators that they were elected to serve the interests of the people. Their silence in the face of such an important proposal raises questions about their true commitment to the people they represent,” they felt.
“By choosing to remain silent during the Budget Session, the Garo legislators have failed to demonstrate the leadership that is needed to address the pressing needs of their constituents. We deserve leaders who will stand firm on the issues that matter most to them and fight for the changes that will positively impact their lives. The creation of a Winter Capital in Tura is not just an administrative necessity — it is a step toward correcting the long-standing neglect of the region and ensuring that the benefits of governance are felt by all citizens, regardless of where they live,” added ASPF.
The organisation urged upon Garo legislators to reflect on their actions and take immediate steps to push for the creation of the Winter Capital in Tura.
“This issue should not be sidelined any longer. It is time for the Garo Hills to be given the attention and resources it deserves, and it is the duty of our legislators to ensure that the aspirations of the people are heard and acted upon,” they asserted.
