Shillong, March 21: Dispelling Misinformation Around the Cenotaph Recent discussions regarding the renovation of the Cenotaph at Babupara, Tura, dedicated to the World War I Labour Corps, have led to the circulation of misinformation. This press statement aims to clarify the facts, address public concerns and provide an update on the project.
The matter first gained public attention following the publication of a news article and video report on May 23rd, 2024, in one of the News Cahnnel titled “Revellers Turn Historic Tura World War Monument into a Nocturnal Den.”
The report highlighted the disrespect the monument had faced over past few months. This was followed by a visit from Hon’ble Chief Minister the very next day, who promptly announced approval for an amount of approximately Rs 2 crore for the renovation of the monument, a move covered in the article, “CM Visits Tura War Memorial, Announces 2 Crore Project for Renovation” published in the news.
These articles were widely circulated and well-received by the community. A sanction for an amount of Rs 2,15,37,524/- was granted under a proposal by the Tura Municipal Board (TMB) through the State Government’s Grants-in-Aid, aimed at restoring the monument’s glory and honouring the sacrifices of the martyrs. The controversy arose when a portion of the upcoming structure was referred to as a “restaurant” in the social media.
The primary concern raised by Mother’s Union during a meeting on Monday was that the rebuilt structure should not be used for commercial purposes or turned into a commercial complex. The meeting concluded on a positive note, with me reassuring the members that, while I have yet to review the designs of the upcoming structure, TMB has assured me that no commercial activities will take place within it.
A secondary concern was that the community at large was not aware of the upcoming work, and were not consulted on the design. The undersigned then brought to the notice of the members, about the publication of the above two articles widely circulated in the media and encouraged them to notice the information which initially prompted the action.
The Deputy Commissioner also encouraged the members to directly reach out to TMB for any clarifications, as the Board is the implementing authority. However, it was disheartening to learn that, despite this guidance, a press release was issued with unverified allegations, rather than seeking firsthand information.
The DC said that when he met with the concerned members again on Wednesday, it became clear that they had not reached out to TMB before making their public statement.
Instead, they had been waiting for the TMB CEO to contact them. He emphasized that a simple inquiry from their end would have resolved the misunderstanding at the outset. It thus appears that some concerns have arisen due to gaps in communication.
While the initial proposal and funding details were publicly reported, they recognize the need for a more structured engagement process. However, it is also important to acknowledge that, prior to this initiative, none of the individuals who later raised concerns had previously approached the office to highlight the disrespect the Cenotaph was facing.
Nor did they step forward with suggestions or support for its upkeep. The government took action precisely because it recognizes and deeply values this monument’s significance.
That said, the undersigned commends the members of the civil society organisations who engaged in the meaningful discussions on Wednesday. Their willingness to initiate dialogue is crucial in ensuring that the renovation aligns with the aspirations of the people.
The primary concern surrounding the commercialisation of the space was cleared. The term “restaurant” was a euphemism for a pantry and should have been referred to as a “pantry”. The undersigned wishes to assure the public that no commercial activities will be conducted at the site.
Furthermore, on every year on July 16th, due to limited space at the Cenotaph in Babupara, both pedestrians and vehicles are stopped, and no parking is available for visitors during the Memorial Service.
To address these challenges, the proposal had been put forward by Tura Municipal Board under the Grant-in-Aid 2023-2024. The project is aimed to create a proper Memorial site, where Garo Labour Corps Day is observed annually. The design also aims to address logistical challenges due to rains, as this important occasion coincides with the monsoon season each year.
Given the space constraints, the ground floor will feature a stacked parking facility. The first floor will include a pantry and a viewing deck. The pantry, restaurant will only be used on the day of the Memorial Service and will not be undertaking any commercial services. The Cenotaph Memorial Stone will be placed on the terrace, where the Memorial Service will also be held.
The basement will house a rainwater harvesting system and washrooms. Additionally, a 10×20 LED display will be installed on the glass wall to showcase various events related to the Memorial and the observations of the Garo Labour Corps Day.
Following the discussion on Wednesday, we are also taking proactive steps to ensure full transparency and community participation. TMB has been directed that the ongoing construction activities be temporarily halted for the remainder of the month. Work will be limited to essential hazard and disaster management tasks only.
Furthermore, a Consultative Committee will be formed under the chairmanship of the undersigned, ensuring representation from key community stakeholders which will include the CEO of TMB, a representative from the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), one representative from the families of the fallen heroes and the representatives from the Mothers Union and Senior Citizens Association nominated by their respective associations.
This committee will review concerns, gather community input, and ensure that the final design reflects the true spirit of the Cenotaph. The outcomes of the committee’s discussions will be presented to the Urban Affairs Department and the CM for further action.
Given the public interest in this project, it is crucial that discussions remain fact-based and constructive to ensure the Cenotaph’s dignity is upheld. The DC Mr. Jagdish Chelani said that he look forward to working together to finalize the design and ensure the monument is a fitting tribute to the labour corps.
