Guwahati: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday, April 16, said the government is ready to release a white paper on the proposed Taj Umiam Luxury Resort & Spa to address public concerns. He did not comment on whether the Lumpongdeng Island issue has been politicised, leaving it to the public to decide.
Addressing reporters, the Chief Minister said the government is prepared to make full project details public through the white paper.
He stated that the main concern raised by protesters regarding construction on Lumpongdeng Island has already been addressed.
He clarified that no construction will take place on the island and that the proposed five-star hotel will instead be developed at the existing Orchid Hotel site near Umiam. He added that this position has remained unchanged and has been communicated repeatedly.
Referring to the ongoing agitation, including a hunger strike by members of the Green-Tech Foundation, he said the administration is monitoring the protesters’ health and has arranged medical support at the site after some refused hospital admission.
He said that with the issue of construction on the island addressed, there is no reason for the protest to continue.
He further noted that the focus of the demands now appears to be shifting towards cancelling the memorandum of understanding (MoU), adding that the basis for such a demand has not been clearly explained.
He said the project is part of a broader tourism development plan involving investment in hotels, homestays, transport, and local businesses, aimed at generating employment and boosting the state economy.
He urged that tourism projects be viewed as a cohesive plan rather than in isolation. Admitting that earlier communication gaps caused confusion, the Chief Minister noted that the government is now actively engaging with stakeholders to provide necessary clarifications.