Shillong, March 24: The organisation A·chik Conscious Holistically Integrated Krima (ACHIK) today ha sent letter to the Chief Minister Mr. Conrad K Sangma sent stong protest against the composition of the committee for the redevelopment of the Cenotaph at Tura and demand demand for transfer of the officials.
In the letter ACHIK and in particular and the nation of A·chik people in general , inform the Chief Minister with deep disappointment and strong concern regarding the recently issued notification dated 22nd March 2025, by the Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills constituting a committee for the redevelopment of the Cenotaph at Tura.
It is evident that this committee has been formed without due consideration for adequate representation of civil society organizations, academicians, and respected community voices, making the entire exercise unacceptable and unjust.
This decision has alienated the very people, whose heritage is at stake, undermining the democratic spirit and participatory governance that Meghalaya upholds. Such an oversight is not just an administrative failure but an outright disregard for the voices of the indigenous people.
ACHIK alleged that failure of leadership, loss of trust in the DC and CEO, Tura Municipal Board. The manner in which this issue has been handled by the Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TMB raises serious concerns about their understanding of local customs, traditions, and sensitivities.
Their lack of respectful engagement with reputed organizations like the Mothers’ Union and other well-respected local Institutions demonstrates an alarming level of indifference to the sentiments of the indigenous community.
Their dismissive and bureaucratic approach to an issue of such historical, cultural, and emotional significance has eroded the trust and faith of the local people. Further, they strongly object to the deliberate avoidance of responsibility by the CEO of TMB, who has conveniently chosen to be on leave at this critical juncture instead of addressing the matter with urgency and accountability.
The absence of the CEO of TMB during such a crucial time, conveniently excusing himself on the pretext of leave, raises further doubts about her commitment to the responsibilities of his office.
It is evident that both officials have failed to uphold the trust placed in them, and as such, they demand their immediate transfer. Given these failures, we demand the immediate transfer of the Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills and the CEO of TMB and the deployment of officials who have demonstrated cultural sensitivity, genuine concern, and respect for indigenous traditions and communities.
Demand for Fair and Inclusive Representation in the Committee Acommittee formed to oversee the redevelopment of a culturally significant site must not be dictated solely by bureaucratic convenience. It must truly represent the voices of the people.
The current composition lacks balance and fairness, and we strongly demand the inclusion of respected civil society organizations (CSOs), particularly those with historical and cultural expertise. Participation of academicians, intellectuals, and public figures, who can ensure informed and unbiased decision-making.
Engagement of non-political community leaders and traditional custodians of indigenous culture who hold the trust of the people, exclusion of political appointees or individuals with vested interests, ensuring that the committee functions with neutrality and transparency. Formation of an independent oversight body to ensure that the decisions made are just, fair, and in the best interest of the local community.
The need for Cultural Sensitivity Among Administrative Officials This unfortunate incident has once again exposed the deep-rooted problem of cultural insensitivity within the administrative machinery. It is unacceptable that officers deployed to indigenous-majority regions like Meghalaya arrive without the necessary cultural awareness or sensitivity training.
To prevent such instances in the future, we propose the following measures, Introduction of a mandatory cultural sensitization and indigenous studies training program at the Meghalaya Administrative Training Institute (MATI) by renowned and reputed public leaders and academicians for all officials before their deployment.
Selection of officers with proven records of working respectfully with indigenous communities for key administrative positions. Strict monitoring and periodic review of administrative decisions that have cultural implications, ensuring they align with the sentiments of the local population.
A colonial, ruler mindset must not be tolerated, and officers must learn to engage with the people with respect, empathy, and inclusivity. DEMANDfor Immediate Government Intervention This matter is of critical importance to the people of Meghalaya. The Cenotaph is not just a landmark- it represents the sacrifices, heritage, and collective history of the community.
Decisions regarding its redevelopment must be taken with wisdom, inclusivity, and respect. They demand for the immediate reconstitution of the committee with diverse and fair representation. Transfer of the Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills and the CEO of TMB, as they have demonstrated a lack of accountability and cultural sensitivity.
Institutionalizing cultural awareness training for all officers posted in Meghalaya to prevent future governance failures of this nature. If these demands are not met swiftly and fairly, they will be compelled to mobilize peaceful protests, engage in public awareness campaigns, and explore legal options to uphold the rights and dignity of our people, said Mr. H R Mark General Secretary and Macklawrence M Sangma Working President, Krima Council, ACHIK.
