BJP MLA and Cabinet Minister Sanbor Shullai has alleged that the agitation against the proposed Shillong Peak ropeway project was being driven by political motives, accusing the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of bringing people from outside the area to create trouble.
The remarks came amid a tense exchange during a meeting convened with 26 organisations, including local NGOs, where JAC members confronted Shullai and demanded that the proposed ropeway project be scrapped.
In a video of the incident, JAC members were seen holding on to Shullai and attempting to stop him from leaving the venue while pressing their demand for the cancellation of the project.
Speaking on the matter, Shullai questioned the presence of people from outside the area at the meeting, claiming that several attendees identified themselves as residents of different localities, including North Shillong, Mawkhar and Polo.
“These people, their intention is to create trouble. There are plenty of instigators. This is a political game, political motivation by various members of political parties,” Shullai alleged.
He further questioned the JAC’s decision to invite people from outside, alleging that certain individuals were attempting to provoke tensions.
The confrontation comes amid continuing opposition to the proposed Shillong Peak ropeway project, with local groups raising concerns and demanding that the project be scrapped.