Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Shillong: Tourism stakeholders across Meghalaya slammed the violence and vandalism that broke out during a rally on August 19. A collective of six organizations issued a formal statement on August 20 to address the fallout. The groups include the Tour Operators Association of Meghalaya, Meghalaya Rural Tourism Forum, Tour Guides Association of Meghalaya, Federation of Shillong Hotels, Meghalaya Tourism Development Forum, and Meghalaya Rural Tourism Cooperative Federation Ltd. They want peace.
Rioters attacked tourist taxis, buses, and vehicles from outside the state during the chaos. Bystanders and pedestrians also faced threats. The stakeholders argue the government failed to manage the situation despite granting permission for the event. They questioned the security measures, stating: "Since the Government had granted due permission, it was expected that adequate police and district administration arrangements would be in place to maintain law and order."
The violence is already hitting bottom lines. Operators report a spike in cancellations as visitors grow wary. Developments in neighboring Assam are further straining inter-state travel. The groups emphasized that small businesses, homestay operators, artisans, and drivers rely on a stable environment to survive. They called on authorities to prosecute the instigators while protecting the rights of peaceful protesters.
Community leaders urged citizens to show restraint and avoid retaliation. They pushed for a path forward based on democratic engagement. Their final appeal was clear: "Peace over confrontation, dialogue over division, and responsibility over retaliation."
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