By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 15: Efforts to break the impasse over the proposed Taj Umiam luxury resort and spa project collapsed on Wednesday evening after a meeting between Tourism officials and members of the Green-Tech Foundation Meghalaya ended without any concrete breakthrough.
Following the inconclusive discussions, the foundation announced that its chairman, H. Bansiewdor Nonglang, would continue his indefinite hunger strike at Malki Ground, now in its seventh day.
The protest has become the focal point of a growing controversy that pits environmental conservation against tourism-led development in the ecologically sensitive region, especially since the government has already made it clear that it would go ahead with the project on the present Umiam Orchid site.
Addressing the media after the meeting, foundation general secretary Ritre Lyngdoh expressed deep disappointment, saying the organisation had hoped for a firm government commitment — particularly on their core demand to scrap the project on Lumpongdeng Island.
“We have waited more than six days expecting a meaningful outcome. The discussions touched on several issues, with environmental concerns at the forefront. However, the Tourism department remained firm and refused to revoke or remove Lumpongdeng Island from the proposed luxury resort and spa project,” Lyngdoh said.
He added that, given the government’s stance, the foundation has decided to intensify its agitation. “The indefinite hunger strike will continue, and we will strengthen our democratic protests, which are protected under the Constitution of India,” he asserted.
Lyngdoh noted that earlier in the day, the district administration, through a magistrate, had urged the foundation to meet the Director of Tourism. Although no written assurance was initially given, a formal invitation was delivered around 4:40 pm for a 5 pm meeting at the Nokrek Building in Lower Lachumiere. After internal deliberations, the foundation chose to attend despite reservations.
On the FIR registered against foundation members, Lyngdoh declined to comment. The organisation had previously insisted that withdrawal of the FIR was a precondition for meaningful dialogue.
Meanwhile, Nonglang — who could not attend the meeting due to his deteriorating health — addressed supporters at the protest site, urging them to maintain peace and restraint.
“From the very first day, we have placed our faith in prayers. This issue has now transcended the foundation and become a concern for the entire Khasi-Jaintia community. We must continue our struggle peacefully, without causing any unrest,” he said.
Acknowledging rising anger among supporters, Nonglang appealed for calm: “The anger is understandable, but I urge everyone to remain composed. We must not act in haste. Decisions will be taken collectively at the right time.”
He reiterated that the movement would not yield to pressure.
Health concerns for Nonglang are mounting as doctors have warned of a steady decline in his condition and strongly recommended immediate hospitalisation. Despite his fragile state, the protest continues to gain momentum, drawing support from various political and civil society groups.
Earlier on Wednesday, KHNAM working president Thomas Passah and VPP JHADC MDC Deiwi Tongper visited the site to express solidarity. Both leaders opposed the project, citing potential damage to fragile ecosystems and calling for greater caution in eco-sensitive zones.
On her part, Tourism Director Brenda Lee Pakyntein maintained that the department is keen to resolve the matter through dialogue. She confirmed that the foundation had requested a written meeting notice, which was promptly issued. However, the members insisted on the withdrawal of the FIR first.
“We have nothing to say about the FIR, but from the department’s side, we are open to talks. We can clarify and resolve the issues if they come forward,” Pakyntein said.
She urged the foundation to end the agitation and pursue dialogue, adding that the executing agency has been directed to obtain all necessary permissions before starting work.
Pakyntein reiterated that there will be no permanent structures on Lumpongdeng Island.
“The DPR (detailed project report) is provisional and will not be approved until the implementing agency complies with all clauses of the agreement, which is the overriding document,” she explained.
She further assured that the implementing agency must adhere to all environmental norms, and the department will closely monitor the project.
