SHILLONG, May 13: After the demand for Winter Capital in Tura, the Jaintia Students’ Union (Central Body) has now demanded that Jowai be granted the status of ‘Summer Capital’ if the state government proceeds with designating Tura as the Winter Capital of the state.
In a press release issued by its general secretary, Neilkee Mukhim, the union emphasised that Meghalaya is home to three major indigenous communities — the Jaintias, the Khasis, and the Garos — and asserted that all must be treated equally to promote fairness and unity across the state.
Highlighting the longstanding underdevelopment and lack of adequate infrastructure in the Jaintia Hills region, the Union argued that granting Summer Capital status to Jowai would help correct the imbalance and ensure equal representation.
Issuing a warning, the Union stated that any move to favour one region while excluding Jaintia Hills would lead to widespread dissatisfaction. “Should such disparity persist, the JSU, along with the people of the region, will be compelled to launch democratic protests and agitations to demand their rightful share,” the statement read.
Reaffirming its position, the Union declared it would not remain silent in the face of injustice. “They will actively and resolutely fight for their rightful share by demanding the establishment of their own seasonal capital in the state,” the statement added.
It may be noted that Governor CH Vijayashankar has constituted an All-Party Committee comprising recognised and registered political parties to deliberate on the proposal to establish a Winter Capital in Tura.
All political parties have been asked to nominate two representatives to the committee, while relevant government departments will also be invited to take part in the discussions.
The committee’s terms of reference include examining the feasibility of setting up a winter capital in Tura and assessing the pros and cons of having two state capitals, based on demands raised by various NGOs and civil society groups. The committee will consult all relevant stakeholders and submit its report to the state government.
