Shillong, Naiwieng 13: The Hynñiewtrep Youths’ Council (HYC) strongly objects to the use of the name Barapani’ instead of Umiam’ in the press release issued by the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) on 12th November 2026, announcing the signing of a Taj Resort in Meghalaya.
The location is locally and historically known as Umiam, and its identity must be respected and recognised. HYC calls upon IHCL, as the hospitality company announcing and promoting the Taj Resort, to clarify why it has used the name ‘Barapani’ in its official press release and immediately correct the reference in all its corporate records, press releases, promotional materials and future communications.
HYC also calls upon Umĩam Hotels Pvt. Ltd., as the local partner in this project, to clarify its role and position regarding the use of the name ‘Barapani’ and whether it has endorsed or consented to this reference. The local partner must also ensure that the identity and locally recognised name of Umiam are respected in all project-related documents and communications.
HYC demands that both IHCL and Umiam Hotels Pvt. Ltd. provide clarification and confirm the necessary corrective measures forthwith. Failure to respond within a considerable period of time will leave HYC to consider taking further appropriate steps.
Development and investment are welcome in Meghalaya, but never at the cost of our indigenous identity and heritage, our land has a name it is Umiam not Barapani, said Mr. Roy Kupar Synrem President HYC.
