Ardent says spa tourism will turn into sex-based tourism
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 13: The NPP-led Meghalaya government’s push for the high-end Taj Umiam Resort & Spa project has evoked a sharp criticism from the Voice of the People Party (VPP) which has warned that such initiatives could ultimately transform Shillong into a “sex city” and Meghalaya into a hub for “sex tourism”.
Addressing reporters on Monday, VPP president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit questioned the intent behind promoting spa-based tourism and large-scale hospitality projects, stating that such models may not benefit the indigenous population and could instead pose serious social risks.
“Do our indigenous communities even understand what a spa entails?” Basaiawmoit asked, expressing concern that the introduction of spa culture could lead to practices inconsistent with Khasi values.
The VPP president cautioned that employing local youth, particularly women, in such sectors could gradually encourage immoral activities and open the door to the growth of a sex industry, as seen in certain parts of the world.
He further argued that Meghalaya, being naturally endowed, does not require large-scale commercial tourism projects. Instead, Basaiawmoit advocated for preserving the state’s environment and promoting community-based tourism.
“Let visitors experience our culture and stay within our communities, rather than in large external establishments,” he said, adding that tourists are largely drawn to homestays and eco-friendly experiences.
The VPP president also alleged that major infrastructure projects in the state have mostly benefited outsiders, citing examples such as the new Secretariat, the P.A. Sangma Stadium, and the Assembly building, where local participation has been limited.
He criticised the government’s earlier proposal to introduce casinos, noting that it was withdrawn only after strong public opposition.
“This shows that without resistance, such decisions would have been implemented,” he said, questioning the vision of the state’s leadership.
Raising environmental concerns, Basaiawmoit said the party does not support the destruction of ecologically sensitive areas for large tourism ventures.
He pointed to the deteriorating environmental conditions in regions such as East Jaintia Hills, where access to clean drinking water has become a growing concern.
The VPP president also expressed solidarity with ongoing hunger strike of Green-Tech Foundation which is opposing the proposed luxury hotel and spa project at Umiam.
Basaiawmoit warned that if such developments continue unchecked, more pristine areas across Garo Hills and Jaintia Hills could face similar threats.
He further alleged that the government has failed to respond to representations submitted by the party since 2024 and has not engaged in meaningful dialogue.
“The claim of transparency and accountability does not reflect in its actions,” he said.
Reiterating the party’s stance, Basaiawmoit stated that VPP may intensify its agitation if the government remains unresponsive, even indicating the possibility of joining ongoing protests, including hunger strikes.
“No one owns nature. Our stand is for the welfare of all people,” he said, urging the government to reconsider its approach to development and prioritise the protection of Meghalaya’s environment and cultural identity.
