SHILLONG, April 17: Green-Tech Foundation chairman H. Bansiewdor Nonglang was shifted to Shillong Civil Hospital on Friday evening after completing nine days of an indefinite hunger strike, following repeated appeals from members of the foundation.
However, continuing their fight, GTF secretary-general Ritre Lyngdoh began an indefinite hunger strike against the project.
The development unfolded amid emotional scenes at the protest site at Malki Ground, where supporters, including foundation secretary-general Ritre Lyngdoh, were visibly moved as Nonglang addressed the gathering.
In a brief but emotional speech, Nonglang said he was deeply touched by the overwhelming support from various pressure groups and members of the public.
Reflecting on his decision, he stated that his death would not advance the cause or serve as an answer what he termed as a “betrayal” of the community at the Secretariat.
“What is more important is to achieve victory,” Nonglang said. Nonglang agreed to be hospitalised on the condition that the people who had gathered at the Malki Ground accompany him.
“I will go to Civil Hospital only if the people who are here accompany me. I will not go alone,” he said, breaking down during his appeal.
Reaffirming his commitment to the movement, he urged supporters to continue the agitation during his treatment and to gather in large numbers at Malki Ground to sustain the protest against the proposed luxury project and the lease of Lumpongdeng Island at Umiam.
At around 5:30 pm, Nonglang was escorted from Malki Ground to Civil Hospital by foundation members and hundreds of supporters.
Upon arrival at the Emergency Centre, he appealed to the public not to worry about his condition but to remain focused on protecting Umiam and Lumpongdeng.
He warned that failure to reclaim the land would mark a collective loss for the community, while success would restore ownership to the people.
After returning to Malki Ground, Ritre Lyngdoh began his indefinite hunger strike in a signal that the agitation would continue until their demands were fulfilled.
