Staff Reporter

Shillong, Jan 21: Acting on specific tip-off, troops of 193 Bn BSF Meghalaya apprehended three drug peddlers, seizing 1728 Yaba tablets from their possession yesterday.

The operation took place in the area under PS-Ranikor, South West Khasi Hills district. The apprehended drug peddlers, traveling on two bikes, were intercepted by the BSF team, who were heading towards the bordering area near Ranikor.

The apprehended persons revealed their identity as Somison Sangma (25 Yrs), Jenel D Sangma (23 Yrs) and Gopal Barman (27 Yrs), all residents of Nokrianala under PS- Dangar district East Khasi Hills. The seized Yaba tablets and arrested drug peddlers were handed over to PS- Ranikor for further legal action.

In a separate operation, acting on specific info, vigilant troops of 110 Bn BSF Meghalaya apprehended 09 Indian smugglers along with consignment of fish while being smuggled from Bangladesh to India. The apprehended smugglers and seized items have been handed over to Customs office Shella for further necessary action.

These successful operations underscore the BSF's unwavering commitment to curbing illegal activities and maintaining the security and integrity of the border. The BSF has heightened its vigil along the border to prevent any untoward incidents.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Jan 21: The state BJP has stated today that the invitation to visit Ram Temple was as per convenience and not for inauguration. 

In a statement, the BJP said a recent news article seems to suggest that some political and religious leaders of Meghalaya have "skipped" the Shree Ram Temple invitation which was extended by the state BJP (not the PM as wrongly reported).

"State BJP makes it clear that the invitation was for visiting the newly constructed Shree Ram Temple, as per the invitees’ convenience, and not for the inauguration per se as no date was mentioned. It is important to note that the invites were readily accepted whole heartedly. Moreover the inauguration event has been advance blessed by every prominent citizen of the state," it said. 

The statement said all BJP Chief Ministers, Union Ministers, State Ministers and all leaders of the party and karyakartas have been directed to witness the historic and Revered event LIVE from places of worship in their respective areas on the 22nd of January 2024. 

Everyone will visit the Shree Ram Temple at a later date of their own choice, the same holds true for Meghalaya as well.

"BJP Meghalaya is of the opinion that such reporting, as has been carried out by one newspaper, is an attempt to vitiate the atmosphere during a momentous occasion and an effort to distort facts. The newly constructed Shree Ram Temple at Ayodhya has an ancient significance and holds a special place in the consciousness of a vast majority of Indians. Such an article is an attempt to paint a picture that Meghalaya doesn’t subscribe to the sentiments of a certain community and is separate from rest of the country. This is particularly sad considering people of various faiths and myriad cultures have always resided in the state in harmony, enjoying each other’s company. BJP Meghalaya fervently appeals that such biased reporting be stopped immediately," it said.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Jan 21: On the occasion of the 52nd anniversary of statehood day of Meghalaya, the Governor, Phagu Chauhan today unveiled ‘Ki Mawbynna” or monoliths erected outside the main gates of Raj Bhavan, Shillong in commemoration of 150 glorious years of Raj Bhavan.

On the occasion the Governor also inaugurated a beautiful tree house constructed in the sprawling lawn of Raj Bhavan, adding to its majestic beauty.

The unveiling was witnessed by the officers and staff of Raj Bhavan led by the Commissioner and Secretary to the Governor, Dr. B D R Tiwari

Formerly known as Government House, the Raj Bhavan was the one of the first houses to be built in Shillong. Designated as the official residence of the then Deputy Commissioner, Colonel Henry Stuart Bivar, it was designed, built and modelled to showcase the grandeur of the British Colonial Rule. In 1874, when Shillong became the Headquarters of the newly created province of Assam, Bivar house was transformed into the Chief Commissioner’s Residency.

The Residency, however, was damaged beyond repair in the Shillong earthquake of 1897. The present building was constructed over the remains of the Residency and was occupied in 1903-04.

The Government House was renamed as “Raj Bhavan” on December 6, 1951.  

After the independence of India, this symbol of the British Raj, in gradual transformation, became the symbol of a vibrant democracy, and ever since it has been the residence of the Governors of the State.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Jan 21: The Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU) has expressed disappointment over the alleged failure of the government to include Jaintia dialect in the Meghalaya State Anthem released on the occasion of the 52nd year of statehood celebration.

“We feel very disappointed that the state government instead of including the Jaintia dialect is promoting English in the State Anthem. This has greatly hurt the sentiments of the people of Jaintia Hills region,” the JSU said in a statement here.

“The government should also be aware that Meghalaya got its statehood by carving the two districts – the United Khasi and Jaintia and Garo Hills – out of Assam. Therefore, we strongly demand the government to take immediate corrective measures,” JSU said. It also demanded all MLAs from Jaintia Hills to voice out their concern against this and ensure Jaintia dialect is also included in the State Anthem.

“The state government should include dialects of all the three tribes – Khasi, Jaintia and Garo – in the State Anthem rather than promoting a foreign language,” the JSU asserted.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Jan 21: Captivating the audience with the suspense thriller “Khat Saw Phra 14/8” one year ago, powerhouse producer and director, Kenny Lyngdoh, is all set to release a gripping thriller which promises to leave the audience on the edge of their seats.

Lyngdoh is not new in the film circle and has been part of Gangs of North East (2017) as a producer, and director of AHOR (2022).

After the release of the hit crime drama ‘14/8’, Lyngdoh is coming out with another masterpiece ‘Unveiling Shadows (RNGAI)’, where the protagonist played by renowned actor Regina Lamo, is confronted by traumatic memories of the murder of her mother and her sister when she investigates the possibility that her brother is innocent of his crime. 

The protagonist’s unyielding curiosity propels her into a perilous and suspenseful adventure. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she begins to unearth the dark secrets concealed beneath a web of illusions that have tormented her for years. 

Lyngdoh says, “It is a gripping tale of deception and revelation, nothing is as it seems. The story follows a protagonist caught in a web of uncertainty, where the very concept of truth is constantly in flux. In a world where trust is a precious commodity, the protagonist must confront her own doubts and question everything she thought she knew. “The Truth is Questionable” is a thrilling journey into the murky depths of uncertainty, where the search for truth becomes an enigmatic and ever-shifting puzzle that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.”

Lamo will be back on the silver screen and this time will team up with Lyngdoh.

Beside Lamo playing the lead role, ‘Unveiling Shadows (RNGAI)’, also stars notable actors such as Jeremy Khongjee, Banatimon Mawlong, Mangkara Khongthohrem, Brandon Sunn, Phidalin Kharsyntiew and MewanpynbhalangTham among others.

The official teaser is already out on YouTube and is receiving a positive response. ‘Unveiling Shadows (RNGAI)’ is set to be released early next month.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Jan 5: The district administration of East Khasi Hills on Friday issued restraining order against illegal mining and quarrying in the hill slopes and removal of sand from river-beds by any person, company or authority without obtaining mining license/quarry permit and other clearance certificates from the competent authority.

“…in exercise of the power conferred upon me under Section 144 CrPC and in order to safeguard the environment, do hereby restrain illegal mining and quarrying in the hill slopes and removal of sand from river-beds by any person, company or authority without obtaining mining license/quarry permit and other clearance certificates from the competent authority/(s),” district magistrate RM Kurbah said in her order.

This came after it was brought to the notice of the district administration tht illegal quarrying and mining particularly on hill slopes and removal of sand from river-beds are taking place in various parts of East Khasi Hills District, and specifically in Sohiong, Mawblei and Umphyrnai which has severely affected the water sources in the surrounding and adjoining areas.

It said that order is received from National Green Tribunal, Principal Bench, New Delhi, restraining any person, company, authority to carry out any mining and quarrying activity or removal of sand from river beds anywhere in the country without obtaining valid mining license/quarry permit and other clearance certificates prescribed by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India in EIA Notification 2006 and Amendments thereof.

Such indiscriminate quarrying and mining activities has led to the constant out-flow of stone, sand and other minerals into the rivers and down from the hill slopes which ultimately lead to destruction of vegetation on the slopes, damages the water sources and destroys aquatic life.

Many rivers have become polluted due to stone and sand mining and as such, the water is no longer potable and is unfit for drinking purposes, etc and

“Whereas, it is necessary to ensure compliance to the aforesaid Order of NGT within East Khasi Hills District so as to prevent danger to human life, health and safety and to protect the environment,” the order said.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Jan 5: BJP MDC from Tura Bernard N Marak today sought the intervention of the Director General of Police (DGP) LR Bishnoi against the alleged illegal transportation of coal in the South Garo Hills district.

An FIR in this regard was also filed with the Nongalbibra police station.

In a letter to the DGP, Marak said, “The reason for inaction by the police raised doubts so I am forwarding my complaint with a copy of the FIR submitted to Nongalbibra police station which has the coordinates of the depos for your reference. Therefore, kindly take immediate action and stop all illegal coal-related activities and honour the Court order.”

He said the complaint is to bring to notice the seriousness of the illegal transportation of coal which is happening openly in huge quantities in the state.

“Overloaded coal trucks without proper documents are plying freely at night by merely paying the entry fee approximately amounting to Rs 1,25,000/- per truck which is not recorded by the Government and without paying royalty tax to the Autonomous District Council (ADCs) and not following the directions of the honourable Supreme Court is a gross violation of the Honorable Supreme Court order dated 03.07.2019 and unjustified exploitation of the provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution of India as all districts in Meghalaya falls under the Hill provisions,” Marak alleged.

“Hundreds of trucks are illegally lifting the coal from Era Aning and Jadigittim and illegal dumpings are taking place openly at the same places which grossly violates the Supreme Court order of 03.07.2019,” he said.

Further, the BJP leader demanded an investigation into the matter and said,  FIR copy which is attached here should be investigated as coal was loaded from the mentioned depo at Era Aning and Jadigittim under Nongalbibra Police Station, South Garo Hills, Meghalaya.”

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Jan 5: Tourism Minister and MDA spokesperson Paul Lyngdoh today said that the rule of law must prevail.

He was responding to a question on the 48-hour protest called by the tourist taxi associations against the yet-to-be-implemented Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) which seeks to increase the punishment in hit-and-run cases.

“This is a matter of concern not just for Meghalaya but the entire nation and of course we have seen a rise in cases of harsh driving and a lot of cases where drivers have taken undue advantage of the laws of the land. So the rule of law must prevail,” Lyngdoh told reporters.

The minister said, “As we speak, this is a protest that is being organised across the country so in fact movement of tourists is impeded across India and it is not something that Meghalaya on its own specially being a landlocked state not take measures of our own it has to be in tandem with what the rest of the country is doing.”

Today, tourist taxis in Meghalaya stayed off the roads in support of the country-wide protest against the BNS.

Meanwhile, the tourist taxi associations have decided to end the 48-hour protest tomorrow.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Jan 5:  Meghalaya Games 2024 is set to make a resounding start as it unveils its official anthem, “Here We Play,” a harmonious collaboration between Shillong-based folk fusion outfit Summersalt and Tura’s NOKPANTE. The anthem, a cultural blend of English, Khasi, Garo, and Pnar languages, encapsulates the vision of the Government of Meghalaya, promoting unity through sportsmanship and diversity.

In an exclusive event at Tura, the launch of the anthem added a symphony of excitement to the upcoming Meghalaya Games scheduled from January 15 to January 20. Crafted under the West Garo Hills DC Initiative for the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, the anthem carries the essence of Meghalaya’s rich cultural tapestry, making it a unifying force for communities across the state.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said,“The anthem ‘Here We Go’ embodies the values of unity, perseverance, and the indomitable Meghalayan spirit. May it echo through stadiums, inspire our athletes to push their limits, and create lasting memories for all who participate and witness the Meghalaya Games.”

Minister of Sports & Youth Affairs Shakliar Warjri, while unveiling the anthem song stated, “The anthem encapsulates the essence of unity, passion, and the unwavering determination that defines our Meghalaya Games. It is a testament to the Vision of Hon’ble Chief Minister to harness the power of sports in bringing people together, transcending boundaries, and fostering a sense of pride in our rich cultural heritage. I extend my gratitude to the talented individuals, Summersalt and NOKPANTE, who have contributed to the creation of this anthem that will resonate in the hearts of our youth, encouraging them to strive for excellence and embody the true spirit of sportsmanship.”

The lyrics, composed by Kit Shangpliang of Summersalt, along with Mikhael Marak from NOKPANTE, weave a motivational narrative echoing the values of hard work, discipline, and resilience. The orchestration, led by Augustine Kurbah, incorporates indigenous musical elements, creating a rhythm that mirrors the heartbeat of Meghalaya.

Summersalt’s Kit Shangpliang expressed gratitude for the collaboration, stating, “As a band, we have taken many similar projects in the recent past, but this one has been a labour of love. The melody is hummable, the rhythm foot-tapping, and the lyrics motivational. Our partnership with NOKPANTE has been seamless, and we thank the District Administration for their trust."

NOKPANTE’s Mikhail Marak adds, “We’ve made it a point to incorporate the Garo and Khasi chants to inject indigeneity into what we’d like to believe is a big song, also, being intentional to have equitable representation of the musical identities of both Khasi and Garo hills. We hope the crowd, especially, the sports community like it.”

‘Here We Play’ will be played throughout the Meghalaya Games 2024 and beyond, becoming the anthem for the event and accompanying medal ceremonies. The convergence of victory chants, symbolized by 'Hoikiw' and 'Ahowee,' reflects Meghalaya’s dedication to sports excellence.

Meghalaya Games has evolved into a premier sporting event, providing a platform for over 3,000 athletes across 19 disciplines.

The success of the 4th edition in Shillong showcased the state’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent, with 700-plus medals awarded to outstanding individuals and teams. As Meghalaya Games 2024 approaches, the unveiling of ‘Here We Play’ heralds a celebration of unity, diversity, and sporting prowess of the state.

Staff Reporter

Shillong, Jan 5: Spokesperson of the MDA government and cabinet minister Paul Lyngdoh today appealed to the proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) not to pull out of the ongoing peace talks.

Speaking to reporters, Lyngdoh said the government has only seen the HNLC’s statement conveying its decision to withdraw from the tripartite peace talks in media reports but officially nothing has been communicated to the government as yet.

“So first, I would appeal to the HNLC not to pull out of the peace talks because a lot of grounds have been covered initially and we would hope that good sense will prevail and we should be able to return to the negotiating table,” he said.

Asked, Lyngdoh said he will not be in a position to say much on the issue since both the chief minister Conrad K Sangma and deputy chief minister in-charge home (police) Prestone Tynsong are presently out of the station.

“But certainly, the government will take a call on the matter and it should be happening very soon once the CM is back,” he added.

He further assured that the matter will be taken priority once the CM and deputy CM in charge home are in town.

On the HNLC’s demand for a general amnesty, Lyngdoh said, “Well, it certainly can be considered depending on the gravity of each of the cases registered but certainly yes, it should be and it will be considered.”

Referring to the NIA cases against the outfit, the spokesperson said, “See those are matters of details but in general the approach should be when you have peace talks it should not be to the detriment of any section and to the interest of only one section so it has to be reciprocal.”

“Based on the principle of reciprocity then only we can take a stand on matters of details but the general approach would be that has to be give and take,” he asserted.