The Joint NGOs Forum of West Garo Hills, comprising concerned citizens, civil society organisations, intellectuals and stakeholders of Meghalaya, have expressed their “deep disappointment and strong objection” to the composition of the committee constituted for the redevelopment of the First World War monument at Lower Babupara.
The monument was demolished by the government and critics said that stakeholders had not been taken into confidence. They also claimed that the site would be commercialised, which would take away from its significance.
“At a time when public confidence in the administration is already shaken due to the manner in which the [monument] issue has been handled, it is unacceptable that this committee is being led by the Deputy Commissioner and the Chief Executive Officer of the TMB (Tura Municipal Board), who have already demonstrated a lack of responsiveness and transparency in addressing public concerns,” the forum wrote in a letter to the Chief Minister. “The absence of adequate representation from civil society, traditional institutions and the general public further renders this committee unrepresentative and unacceptable.”
The forum would like the committee reconstituted with “more inclusive and impartial leadership”, chaired by a cabinet minister, leader of the opposition or Chief Secretary. “The DC and the CEO of the TMB should not head the committee, as their prior handling of the matter has eroded public trust.”
It also called for the Tura MDC – currently a strong critic of the state government – to be included on the committee to represent the GHADC. It also wants increased representation of civil society, traditional leaders and independent experts, three representatives from senior citizens’ associations, three from the Mothers’ Union and three from CSOs. “Scholars, and historian leaders must also be included to ensure that the redevelopment is carried out with dignity, cultural sensitivity and historical accuracy.”
Other demands included mandatory public consultation at every stage of the redevelopment process, provision of timely updates and meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders, demonstration of ethical governance and transparent decision-making.
The monument “is not just a physical structure; it represents the history, sacrifice and cultural heritage of our people. It must not be treated as a routine administrative matter but as an issue of deep historical and emotional significance.”
