State BJP lists Mawjymbuin Cave, Weiking, Nongsawlia Church for devp
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 16: The Meghalaya unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is preparing to submit proposals to the Centre for the development of key religious and cultural sites in the State under the PRASHAD and Swadesh Darshan 2.0 schemes, including the Mawjymbuin Cave in Mawsynram, which was at the centre of a storm last year.
Former MLA and senior BJP leader Alexander Laloo Hek said on Thursday that discussions were held on Wednesday with central party leaders to identify potential sites in Meghalaya for development under the Union Tourism Ministry initiatives.
Hek said that internal consultations were also held within the State unit of the party on Thursday, including one with party president Rikman G. Momin, office-bearers and grassroots workers, to gather suggestions.
Among the proposals is the development of the Weiking Ground of Seng Khasi Kmie, which party leaders described as an urgent requirement. Another key suggestion is to develop the Aitnar site in Jowai, where the annual Behdienkhlam festival is held, to benefit followers of the Niamtre faith and residents of the Jaintia Hills region.
The BJP is also considering proposals to develop the historic Presbyterian Church at Nongsawlia, regarded as the first Christian church in Meghalaya, under the central schemes. Additionally, the party is exploring the possibility of identifying a Catholic church in the State for development as a pilgrimage destination.
Hek further revealed that discussions have begun at the local level to develop Mawjymbuin Cave, popularly known for its natural Shivaling formation. However, he noted that the proposal is subject to approval by the local Dorbar Shnong’s Executive Committee.
Clarifying the intent, Hek emphasised that the initiative is not politically driven. “This is not a BJP scheme. Any development undertaken will ultimately be handed over to the respective Dorbar Shnong or local bodies,” he said.
He added that no formal proposals have been submitted so far, as discussions remain at a preliminary stage. The party has also not formally approached religious institutions, including churches or organisations such as Seng Khasi Kmie and Niamtre.
Hek revealed that he had informal interactions with the Seng Khasi Kmie leaders while attending the annual Shad Suk Mynsiem recently. He said these leaders were keen to develop the Weiking Ground.
Meanwhile, the BJP leader invited stakeholders and organisations to submit proposals, assuring them that the party would escalate their suggestions to the Centre.
He stated that clarity on funding will emerge only after formal proposals are processed.
Hek said the party would soon compile and forward the suggested sites to the Centre and seek further guidance on whether proposals should be routed through the State government or submitted directly.
The PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive) scheme focuses on developing pilgrimage destinations, while Swadesh Darshan 2.0 aims to promote sustainable and destination-centric tourism across the country.
