Meghalaya

The demand for Central security by Prof. Prabha Shankar Shukla, Vice-Chancellor of Meghalaya's North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), has sparked local outrage, with the Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organization (HITO) dismissing it as unfounded and potentially misuse of power. Shukla, who requested Central Armed Forces for his "safe return" to the campus on December 2, argued that the security measures provided by the Meghalaya State Government were inadequate for someone of his stature. In response, HITO criticized the VC’s demand in a letter to Home Minister Amit Shah, claiming that it lacked a valid foundation. The pressure group accused Shukla of disrespecting local traditions, particularly pointing to his defiance of a directive from the Mawlai Town Dorbar, a body that re...

The Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has significantly bolstered its political presence by inducting over 500 new members from various political factions, including the National People's Party (NPP), United Democratic Party (UDP), and Voice of the People Party (VPP). This strategic move aims to enhance the party’s organizational strength ahead of upcoming elections. The induction ceremony, held at Congress Bhawan in Shillong, was attended by key party officials, including MLA Ronnie V Lyngdoh, who underscored the importance of these new members in rejuvenating the party’s structure. He emphasized that their inclusion would bring fresh perspectives and energy to the Congress fold. Vice President MDC PN Syiem further highlighted the need for a balanced team, combining youthful...

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma inaugurated the first phase of the Meghalaya Biological Park, also known as the Meghalaya State Zoo, at Umtrew in Ri Bhoi District on November 27. The project, initiated in 2001, marks a significant step in the state’s conservation efforts. Speaking at the event, Sangma emphasized the park’s dual purpose as a recreational space and a hub for fostering environmental awareness, particularly among the youth. He described the park as a sanctuary for rescued and rehabilitated animals, contributing to ecological balance. The 72-hectare facility is still under development, with features like ticket counters, cafeterias, and souvenir shops yet to be completed. Animals from Shillong’s Lady Hydari Park have already been relocated to enclosures at Umtrew. ...

On November 27, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma officially opened the first phase of the Meghalaya State Zoo, also known as the Meghalaya Biological Park, near Umtrew, Ri Bhoi District. In 2001, 24 years ago, the project got underway. Sangma emphasized the government's dedication to developing the state during the inauguration, however he also noted that a number of features, including ticketing counters, cafeterias, gift shops, and enclosures, are still being developed. According to the chief minister of Meghalaya, the park in the Ri Bhoi district would be used not just as a place of entertainment and leisure but also as a forum for interaction, especially to encourage young people to have empathy and responsibility for the environment and animals. In order to support co...

The Ministry of Education dispatched a two-member inquiry committee to look into alleged administrative shortcomings at North Eastern Hill University in Meghalaya, and the commission has finished its review. Students, staff, and instructors are waiting for the report, which is expected to be submitted by Friday, November 29, as long as there are still unresolved concerns at the university. During their visit, the powerful committee—which included former Vice-chancellor of Assam University Professor Dilip Chandra Nath and former University Grants Commission Chairman Professor D P Singh—heard complaints from staff, faculty, and students for hours. The investigation's conclusion will be a turning point in the university's ongoing unrest since it will establish the course for returning...

During a special program honoring the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, legal experts raised awareness of women's rights and protections. A focused community engagement on important legal protections for women was held at Khatarshnong Laitkroh C&RD Block by the District Legal Services Authority, East Khasi Hills, in collaboration with the Meghalaya State Legal Services Authority. P Riahtam, a Shillong-based Legal Aid Counsel, explained maintenance provisions under Section 144 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita while analyzing the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005. Her talk shed light on the legal options available to women who want financial assistance and safety. A Khongsit, Station Inspector from Sohra Police Station, added to Ria...

Meghalaya's political scenario is poised for a potential transformation following the National People's Party (NPP) candidate Dr. Mehtab Chandee A. Sangma’s decisive win in the Gambegre bye-election, cabinet minister Rakkam A. Sangma hinted on Saturday. Speaking to the media, Rakkam Sangma remarked, “Maybe the political dimensions may change in the state now,” highlighting the possibility of a reshaped political dynamic in the wake of the bye-election results. The victory further cements the NPP’s dominance in the state, following the defection of three Congress legislators to the NPP ahead of the polls. Sangma expressed doubts about the Congress party's ability to recover, noting, “Winning the Lok Sabha election in Tura is like a miracle for Congress. But what about Shillong? If they ...

Himanta Biswa Sarma, the chief minister of Assam, praised the National Democratic Alliance's impressive showing in the most recent northeastern by-elections, calling the wins in Assam and Meghalaya important political milestones. On November 24, Sarma told reporters, "We have maintained our winning marathon, or winning sprint," highlighting the BJP's steady electoral gains in Assam. He cited these findings as important predictors for the state assembly elections in 2026. The victory's timeliness was emphasized by the chief minister, who stated, "This result has given a big boost on the eve of the Assembly election. "In the backdrop of the Lok Sabha election, where we were almost routed in Meghalaya, I believe this is a good comeback," Sarma said, describing this as very significant...