By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 14: The Green-Tech Foundation Meghalaya on Tuesday firmly rejected the state government’s offer for dialogue over the proposed Taj Resort at Umiam, escalating tensions surrounding the controversial project.
The response came a day after Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong reiterated that the NPP-led MDA government remains open to discussions and is willing to engage with stakeholders seeking clarity on the project.
However, Foundation general secretary Ritre Lyngdoh made it clear that the organisation is no longer interested in dialogue, asserting that its stand against the project remains unchanged.
“We do not see the need to engage in further arguments. We are firm in our opposition to the project. The Deputy Chief Minister said the doors of the Secretariat are open for dialogue 24/7, but when we went to voice our concerns, we were forcibly evicted,” Lyngdoh said.
He further stated that the foundation had already submitted petitions, memoranda and RTI documents to the government, including to Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira, and various departments, but had received no response.
“The question is why the government has not replied to our submissions. Now they say they are ready for dialogue, but that time has already passed. What we need now is a written confirmation that the project at Lumpongdeng Island has been scrapped,” he said.
Earlier, Tynsong had assured that the proposed development would strictly adhere to all legal and environmental safeguards, including provisions under environmental laws and regulations governing water bodies and wetlands. He also acknowledged the concerns raised by various sections, particularly the youth.
The Deputy Chief Minister maintained that no permanent structures would be constructed at the site and that the project aims to enhance and beautify the area, drawing comparisons with developments such as Ward’s Lake, while preserving the natural character of Lumpongdeng.
Referring to past opposition to infrastructure projects, he cited the construction of the four-lane road from Jingkieng Umshyrpi to Pomlum, which had faced criticism over environmental concerns but was later followed by plantation initiatives.
Tynsong further assured that there would be no destruction of forest areas and that the focus would remain on improving the site. He added that tourist access to Lumpongdeng would be restricted to once a year.
Despite these assurances, the Green-Tech Foundation has reiterated that it will not engage in talks and will continue its protest until the government formally withdraws the proposed project.
It may be added that the indefinite hunger strike by Green-Tech Foundation chairman H. Bansiewdor Nonglang entered its sixth day on Tuesday at Malki Ground.
The protest, which began on April 9, has crossed 120 hours, with Nonglang’s health reportedly deteriorating. Despite medical advice to shift to Shillong Civil Hospital, he refused hospitalisation and medication, remaining resolute in his demand for the complete scrapping of the project.
Foundation general secretary Ritre Lyngdoh said the chairman will continue the fast until the state government issues a formal written order cancelling the project. “We will not move from here. Our stand has been clear from the beginning, and we will continue until the project is withdrawn,” he said.
Lyngdoh noted that the agitation has received growing public support, with individuals and organisations visiting the site and expressing solidarity, including through prayers. He said such support has strengthened their determination to continue the protest.
At the same time, he criticised the lack of response from the authorities, stating that no officials from the district administration have visited the protest site so far.
Meanwhile, leaders of the Voice of the People Party (VPP) extended their support to the ongoing agitation.
JHADC MDC Jamshaprang Pohtam, representing War Central Constituency, said he attended the protest both as a public representative and a concerned citizen. He described the agitation as a cause that deserves wider public support and urged citizens to stand in solidarity with the foundation.
Pohtam also criticised the state government, alleging that it was prioritising its image over the interests of the people. He termed the proposed project as an example of “crony capitalism” and urged the government to prioritise the voices of the people and protect natural resources.
He warned that ignoring public sentiment could lead to unrest and called on the government to reconsider the project in the larger interest of the state.
Echoing similar views, JHADC VPP MDC Laiawanlamjinghun Khyriam expressed strong support for the protest and condemned the government’s approach. She urged the authorities to respect the demands of the foundation and immediately scrap the proposed luxury project.
