Raphael Warjri

Members of District Councils (MDCs) from the Voice of the People’s Party (VPP) representing both the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) and the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) on Tuesday extended their support and solidarity to the ongoing agitation led by the Chairman of the Green-Tech Foundation (GTF).

Those present included Powel Sohkhlet, Aibandaplin L Nonglait, Seiborlang Warbah, and Eddieson Kharumnuid, among others.

Addressing the media, Powel Sohkhlet stated that the protest spearheaded by the GTF is rooted in a genuine commitment to environmental conservation and the protection of natural ecosystems. He noted that the movement reflects increasing public concern over the preservation of ecologically sensitive areas.

Commenting on the state government’s proposal to develop a resort at Dewlynnong Lumpongdeng, Sohkhlet alleged that the clarifications issued by the government are aimed at misleading the public and diluting the core demands raised by the Green-Tech Foundation.

He also expressed concern over what he described as the government’s growing inclination to promote large-scale tourism infrastructure, including the establishment of five-star hotels in various parts of the state, particularly at Dewlynnong Lumpongdeng. He underscored that the site, located within Umiam Lake, serves as an important natural habitat and warrants protection from commercial exploitation.

The VPP MDCs reaffirmed their support for the GTF’s demands and stressed the need to prioritise environmental sustainability in all developmental initiatives.