Efforts to resolve the deadlock over the proposed Taj Umiam luxury resort and spa project ended without progress on Wednesday evening, after a meeting between Tourism officials and members of the Green-Tech Foundation Meghalaya failed to reach any agreement. Following the inconclusive talks, the foundation announced that its chairman, H. Bansiewdor Nonglang, will continue his indefinite hunger strike at Malki Ground, which has now entered its seventh day. The protest has become the centre of a growing controversy, highlighting the clash between environmental protection and tourism-driven development in the ecologically sensitive Umiam region. The government has already stated that it intends to proceed with the project at the existing Umiam Orchid site.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, foundation general secretary Ritre Lyngdoh expressed disappointment, stating that the organisation had expected a clear commitment from the government—especially regarding their key demand to scrap the project on Lumpongdeng Island.
“We waited for more than six days hoping for a meaningful outcome. Environmental concerns were discussed, but the Tourism department remained firm and refused to remove Lumpongdeng Island from the project,” Lyngdoh said. He added that the foundation will now intensify its protest. “The hunger strike will continue, and we will strengthen our democratic agitation, as guaranteed under the Constitution of India,” he said. Lyngdoh also mentioned that earlier, the district administration had urged the foundation to meet the Director of Tourism. Although no written assurance was initially provided, a formal invitation was later issued for a meeting at the Nokrek Building in Lower Lachumiere. Despite reservations, the foundation agreed to attend.
On the FIR filed against its members, Lyngdoh declined to comment, reiterating that its withdrawal remains a precondition for meaningful dialogue. Meanwhile, Nonglang, who could not attend the meeting due to worsening health, addressed supporters at the protest site and urged them to remain peaceful. “This issue has gone beyond the foundation and now concerns the entire Khasi-Jaintia community. We must continue peacefully without creating unrest,” he said. He acknowledged growing anger among supporters but appealed for restraint, stressing that decisions would be taken collectively at the appropriate time.
Doctors have warned that Nonglang’s health is deteriorating and advised immediate hospitalisation. Despite this, the protest continues to gain support from political leaders and civil society groups. Earlier in the day, KHNAM leader Thomas Passah and VPP JHADC MDC Deiwi Tongper visited the protest site and expressed support, opposing the project over environmental concerns. Tourism Director Brenda Lee Pakyntein stated that the department remains open to dialogue. She confirmed that a written invitation for talks was issued after the foundation’s request but noted that members insisted on FIR withdrawal first.
“We are open to discussions and ready to address concerns if they come forward,” she said. Pakyntein assured that no permanent structures would be built on Lumpongdeng Island and that all environmental norms must be followed before the project begins. She added that the detailed project report is still provisional and will only be approved after the implementing agency meets all required conditions.