The Voice of the People Party (VPP) on Friday expressed strong suspicion over the state government’s handling of the proposed luxury resort and spa project at Umiam Lake, suggesting that “something is happening behind the scenes” given the manner in which Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has defended the project. After visiting H Bansiewdor Nonglang, who is on an indefinite hunger strike at Malki Ground, VPP leader and JHADC opposition MDC Awhai Andrew Shullai said available records indicate the involvement of an external construction company in the Umiam tourism project. Shullai clarified that while there is no direct allegation against the Chief Minister, the government’s strong defence of the project raises concerns about possible undisclosed developments. He criticised the lack of proper consultation and stressed that the project should undergo a thorough environmental impact assessment (EIA) along with meaningful public participation.
Citing RTI findings obtained by the Green-Tech Foundation Meghalaya, he said the concerns raised by protesting youths are valid and grounded in environmental understanding. He also warned that the project could negatively impact local entrepreneurs who have already established tourism ventures around Umiam. Raising ecological concerns, Shullai emphasized that Lumpongdeng Island is an iconic ecological site and habitat for migratory birds and should be preserved in its natural state rather than leased out for commercial use. He added that the opposition is not against development at Umiam but specifically opposes leasing 36 acres of the island. He urged the government to scrap the lease agreement with the private firm if there are no clear plans for responsible use. The Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP) also clarified its stance, stating that any construction should take place at the existing Orchid site instead of Lumpongdeng. Party president K P Pangniang said development must not harm the environment. Meanwhile, the Hynniewtrep National Youth Front (HYNF) warned that the government would be responsible for any untoward incidents if it continues with its “adamant” stand. HYNF East Khasi Hills president Steve Khyriem expressed solidarity with the hunger strike and urged the government to reconsider the project.
Khyriem also pointed out inconsistencies in the government’s statements, alleging that its forceful approach has led to growing unity among social organizations opposing the project. The ongoing protest, led by the Green-Tech Foundation, continues to focus on protecting Lumpongdeng Island from commercial exploitation, even as pressure mounts on the government to review the lease agreement and address public concerns. The Shillong concert of legendary German rock band Scorpions, scheduled for April 21, has been cancelled, sources confirmed on Friday, even as organisers are yet to issue an official statement. According to sources, the cancellation is part of changes affecting the band’s India tour, which included scheduled performances in Delhi-NCR on April 24, Bengaluru on April 26 and Mumbai on April 30 However, there has been no formal confirmation from the organizers or the band so far Earlier rumours of cancellation had been circulating on social media, but official platforms, including the band’s website and X handle, had not reflected any such update at the time. The lack of an official announcement has added to the confusion among fans, particularly in Shillong where anticipation for the concert had been high.
As of now, the cancellation is indicated by sources, while clarity on the reasons behind the decision and the status of other tour dates are awaited from organizers. Sources indicated that the band’s entire India leg may be called off. Scorpions’ Shillong Concert Cancelled amid Uncertainty over India Tour The Shillong concert of legendary German rock band Scorpions, scheduled for April 21, has reportedly been cancelled, sources confirmed on Friday. However, organizers have yet to release an official statement. According to sources, the cancellation is part of broader changes affecting the band’s India tour, which included performances in Delhi-NCR on April 24, Bengaluru on April 26, and Mumbai on April 30. Despite earlier rumors circulating on social media, there has been no formal confirmation from either the organizers or the band. Official platforms, including the band’s website and X (formerly Twitter) handle, have not reflected any update so far. The absence of an official announcement has created confusion among fans, particularly in Shillong, where excitement for the concert had been high. As of now, the cancellation remains based on source inputs, with no clarity yet on the reasons behind the decision or the status of other scheduled performances. Sources also indicated that the band’s entire India tour could potentially be called off.