Shillong: Tensions flared on Wednesday evening at Laban Dorbar Hall. Women from the Joint Action Committee cornered the Riat Laban Dorbar Pyllun executive committee. They demanded a total pullout from the Madan Laban to Shillong Viewpoint ropeway project. The group blocked exits to force a decision from the leadership.
Police arrived to keep the peace. Emotions boiled over. Several women wept, claiming leaders failed them. The protesters threatened a massive uprising. They warned that any physical confrontation would set the city ablaze.
JAC leaders Venetia Mawlong and Linda Marbaniang rejected the Dorbar plan for public consultations. They called the move a stalling tactic. They want the lease voided now. The committee previously sent a formal protest to Tourism Commissioner R.M. Kurbah.
JAC president Deborah Marbaniang denied political motives. She cited threats to the Lum Shyllong forests and local water sources as the true cause. Member Olivia Lyngdoh stated they approached the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council only because it holds the legal authority to review the project.
Meanwhile, the KSU Laban Circle remains neutral. President Jason Laloo said his group is waiting for expert reports before choosing a side. He noted, “We neither support nor oppose the project at this stage. We want to listen to the experts and have also sought their opinions. We are waiting for a proper report before taking a stand.”
Laloo condemned the government for using a Special Operations Team and tear gas against women during an October 28 protest. He demanded accountability for any environmental destruction. The JAC is now preparing for further sit-ins and intensified demonstrations across the region.
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