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Meghalaya

Shillong

Mizoram

Four of the five Indian locations with the lowest reported annual PM2.5 concentrations in the World Health Organization’s latest air-quality database are in the Northeast, with Meghalaya and Mizoram accounting for all four.

Meghalaya, Mizoram lead India’s cleanest air list in WHO data

<p>The East Jaintia Hills District Administration has issued a detailed clarification regarding the ongoing strike by the Meghalaya Commercial Truck Owners and Drivers Association (MCTODA) against cement companies operating in the region. Authorities have termed the continued blockade along National Highway-6 as “illegal” and warned that no group will be allowed to take the law into its own hands.</p>

<p>Following the strike call on October 27, 2025, officials initiated a series of meetings to resolve the dispute through dialogue. The first coordination meeting, held on 30 October at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Khliehriat, included representatives from the Jaintia Hills Cement Manufacturers Association (JHCMA), Jaintia Hills Truck Owners Association (JHTOA), and East Jaintia Hills Truck Owners and Transporters Association (EJHTOTA).</p>

<p>Despite being invited, MCTODA refused to attend the meeting. The other two associations confirmed they were operating normally with cement plants and had no involvement in the strike. Written submissions from these groups reaffirmed their commitment to continue transportation activities without disruption.</p>

<p>Further discussions between MCTODA and the JHCMA were chaired by the Deputy Commissioner on 31 October and 3 November to address the truckers’ demands. MCTODA had sought enforcement of freight rates, prevention of overloading, priority loading for local trucks, parking facilities, timely payments, and adherence to labour regulations.</p>

<p>The JHCMA clarified that government-notified freight rates for intra-state transportation were already being followed by all cement plants. However, MCTODA’s insistence on applying the same rates to interstate transport was deemed unlawful. The administration stated that the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, does not authorise any state government to fix rates for inter-state transport, as these are determined by market factors and mutual agreements.</p>

<p>Despite progress on several of their other demands, MCTODA continued the strike, allegedly obstructing the movement of trucks carrying cement and clinker. The blockade has disrupted both transport and public movement along NH-6, with reports of vehicle damage and harassment of non-participating drivers. Police have since taken steps to clear the blockades and restore traffic.</p>

<p>Representatives from JHTOA and EJHTOTA expressed concern that their members’ livelihoods were being affected by the strike, urging the administration to ensure safe passage for their vehicles and inclusion in future consultations on freight matters.</p>

<p>The Deputy Commissioner reiterated the government’s stance that while associations may voice genuine concerns, no one will be permitted to block highways or disrupt essential services. The administration reaffirmed its commitment to continue dialogue with all stakeholders to ensure lawful resolution, maintain order, and protect the livelihoods of transport workers across East Jaintia Hills.</p>


Meghalaya's truckers continue strike over freight rate demands, disrupting cement transport in East Jaintia Hills. Authorities are actively working to resolve the issue and restore normalcy

The strike by MCTODA on October 27, 2025, demands changes to inter-state freight rate policies, affecting cement and clinker transport on National Highway-6.

District officials held a coordination meeting on October 30 with various associations, but MCTODA declined to participate, complicating resolution efforts.

JHCMA clarified that government-notified freight rates for intra-state transport are fully implemented, but MCTODA demands these rates for inter-state transport.

Meghalaya government clarifies position on truckers’ strike, calls blockade illegal

<p>Conrad Sangma made an unequivocal statement at the Meghalaya Media Meet 2025 that has resonated far beyond the state's borders. The chief minister declared he has never asked a journalist to soften their criticism and never will, emphasising that even the "smallest articles, posts and criticisms" help him make decisions affecting millions of lives.</p>

<p>Speaking in Shillong on September 10, Sangma told the gathering of media professionals that their role is to serve the people and the state, not to please individuals. He urged journalists to never assume he expects them to avoid criticising his administration.</p>

<p>"The media holds immense power, and journalists must always recognise the responsibility that comes with it," Sangma said, addressing concerns about press freedom that have emerged globally. His message comes at a time when media independence faces scrutiny across various democracies.</p>

<p>The chief minister's remarks were part of a broader commitment to journalist welfare. The state government honoured eight veteran journalists with financial support of Rs 1 lakh each during the event. Additionally, Sangma announced monthly support of Rs 10,000 for senior journalists under the Meghalaya Journalists Welfare Scheme 2024, along with proposed financial assistance of up to Rs 35 lakh.</p>

<p>The daylong media meet, organised by the state's Department of Information and Public Relations, brought together prominent policymakers, journalists, and communication experts. The event featured workshops on creative writing and misinformation detection, alongside panel discussions on combating fake news and building media capacity.</p>

<p>Distinguished attendees included BBC South Asia Bureau Chief Jacky Martens, Emmy-nominated journalist Ahmer Khan, and UNICEF India's Chief of Communication Zafrin Chowdhury.</p>

<p>Information and Public Relations Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh highlighted the theme "From Print to Pixel," noting how it captures media's evolution while emphasising trust, ethical technology use, and journalistic accountability.</p>

<p>Chief Secretary Donald Wahlang stressed that while technology brings speed and scale to journalism, trust remains the most valuable currency in the profession. Development Commissioner Sampath Kumar emphasised the media's role in policy change, stating that systemic transformation occurs when compelling narratives resonate with people.</p>

<p>Sangma's call for a structured media ecosystem included urging media houses to register with the state's information department for better organisation. He advocated for training programmes to enhance reporting skills, particularly focusing on leveraging technology and artificial intelligence in the evolving media landscape.</p>


Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma emphasises the need for free and critical journalism. Eight veteran journalists were honoured at Media Meet 2025 with government backing for media integrity and equality

Chief Minister Sangma reaffirms commitment to free and critical journalism

Eight veteran journalists receive Rs 1 lakh financial support each

Journalists get monthly stipend under welfare scheme 2024

'Never ask journalists to soften their pen': Meghalaya CM Conrad K Sangma

<p>Captain Williamson Sangma State University achieved a landmark moment on Tuesday as it officially launched academic operations with 274 students across its Tura and Shillong campuses, marking the culmination of a 14-year journey from legislative vision to educational reality.</p>

<p>Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced the milestone on social media, declaring, "Proud to Announce the Beginning of a New Chapter Today marks a historic milestone as we welcome 274 students to Capt. Williamson Sangma State University. The induction ceremony will take place in Tura and at our Shillong Regional Campus. What was once a vision is now a reality, Meghalaya's first State University officially begins its academic journey this year."</p>

<p>The development represents a breakthrough for higher education access in Meghalaya, particularly given CWSSU's decision to bypass the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) requirement that governs admissions at North-Eastern Hill University and affiliated institutions under the National Education Policy 2020.</p>

<p>The Tura campus offers ten postgraduate courses, including Anthropology, Economics, Education, Environmental Science, Garo, Geography, History, Philosophy, Political Science, and Sociology. The Shillong regional campus provides programmes in Commerce, English, Khasi, and Social Work.</p>

<p>Established through Meghalaya Government legislation in 2011, CWSSU received formal degree-awarding powers in December 2024 following recognition under Section 2(f) of the UGC Act, 1956. The university's permanent campus in Tura, completed in December 2022 using Special Plan Assistance funding of Rs 16.96 crore, spans 90 acres with comprehensive academic blocks, hostels, and administrative facilities.</p>

<p>The university's impact extends beyond its own campuses, with 11 colleges across Meghalaya receiving CWSSU affiliation and adopting the same CUET-free admission policy for postgraduate students. This approach provides expanded educational pathways for students who might otherwise face barriers through centralised entrance examinations.</p>


Meghalaya's first state university welcomes 274 students as it begins academic sessions.

CWSSU welcomes 274 students to its Tura and Shillong campuses

The university bypasses CUET for easier admission access

Offers diverse postgraduate courses including Anthropology and Commerce

Meghalaya's first state university welcomes 274 students as historic milestone unfolds

Entertainment

Lifestyle

<p>“It’s like two different worlds,” a young woman told her friend as they walked from the main arena towards the Japan section at Bhoirymbong's Cherry Blossom Festival. She wasn't wrong. While the main stage area was packed with people struggling to catch a glimpse of <em>Akon</em>, the Japan Arena felt like stepping into an intimate matsuri (festival) where cultures danced together under November skies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The contrast was striking from the moment anyone crossed the invisible boundary between the two spaces. Behind the main stage, production crews rushed about with walkie-talkies, coordinating the complex logistics of international acts. <em>Clean Bandit’s Grace Chatto</em> could be spotted in a corner, carefully tuning her electric cello, while <em>Kanika Kapoor</em>’s team meticulously arranged her elaborate costume changes. The air thrummed with the nervous energy that precedes any major concert.</p>

<p>But just a few hundred metres away, the Japan Arena moved to an entirely different rhythm. Steam rose from fresh <em>udon noodles</em>, perfuming the crisp mountain air with promises of comfort, while the familiar scent of <em>ja stem</em> (yellow rice) created a perfect fusion of aromas. Near the food stalls, teenagers in oversized anime hoodies huddled over bowls of pork miso, their chopsticks clicking as they shared bites of the meal and debated which performance to catch next. Their excited chatter mixed Japanese anime phrases with local expressions, creating their own festival dialect that somehow made perfect sense.</p>

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<p>As one wandered around, it became clear this was where things came to life. Young designers transformed fabric into stories, with Arif Mukhim's Sakura-inspired contest blending Northeast India's deep culture with Japan's vibrant energy. Every stitch told a story that demanded attention, and honestly, it was hard to look away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the true beauty of the festival wasn’t just in its fashion or food—it was in the music, in how each performance blurred the lines between genres and backgrounds.</p>

<p><em>Aben</em> from Tripura stood out—not just for his incredible sound but for how he effortlessly blended his roots with indie pop. He mixed English, Hindi, and Manipuri like they were all part of one global language, and you couldn’t help but follow.</p>

<p>And then there was <em>The Kindred Spirits</em>. You could tell right away that this band wasn’t just going through the motions. They had a vibe, a chemistry that transcended the music. Jeremy B Mawlong’s guitar led the way, while the rest of the group—Steven on bass, Rondol on guitar, Jerryberg on keys, and Kevin on drums—created a sound that paid homage to Paul Lyngdoh's timeless words.</p>

<p><em>J-Hind</em> turned the energy up several notches, their Japanese take on Indian popular music creating a sonic bridge between cultures. Koji Sato’s vocals, combined with Takashi Suzuki's guitar and Taisei Toyomaru’s drumming, created magic, especially during their cover of “Choo Lo” by The Local Train. Toyomaru became an unexpected star, drawing fans (mainly women) for photos.</p>

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<p><em>Amaiwana</em>, the J-pop sensation from Tokyo, brought a touch of kawaii charm to the festival. Her vintage red dress and upbeat energy had the crowd wrapped around her finger. But it wasn’t just about her voice—it was the way she spoke to the audience, teaching them Japanese phrases, making everyone feel like they were part of something international yet deeply personal.</p>

<p>But it wasn’t all pop sweetness. <em>Zombie-Chang</em>, also known as Meirin Yung, brought a different vibe, one that was raw and unapologetic. She unleashed a sonic storm, blending punk with electronic beats, and it felt like the festival ground had been hit with a wave of electricity. It wasn’t for everyone, but for those who got it, it was a raw, unfiltered experience.</p>

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<p><em>DYGL</em> (pronounced as day glow) transformed the night with their electric indie rock. The Tokyo quartet—Nobuki Akiyama, Kohei Kamoto, Yosuke Shimonaka, and Yotaro Kachi—delivered a performance that felt like pure electricity. As confetti exploded into the air and tired festival-goers found their second wind, even those who had been fixated on Akon's main stage performance found themselves drawn to DYGL's magnetic energy.</p>

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<p>And just when one thought they’d seen it all, day 2 brought the Mr and Miss Cherry Blossom pageant, a long-standing tradition of the festival. The contestants not only impressed with their confidence but also spoke about the Sakura connection between Meghalaya and Japan. In the end, they were crowned and walked away with prizes, adding another memorable moment to the event. The Scandal Dance Troupe took this idea even further. With East Asian culture having a strong influence in the region—whether through food, fashion, or the love for K-pop and J-pop—a group of local girls performing to J-pop numbers felt right at home.</p>

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<p>It was clear how seamlessly cultures were blending at the festival—whether through confident pageant contestants celebrating connections or local performers embracing J-pop with ease.</p>

<p>And then came a moment that truly brought it all together.</p>

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<p>"Jeene ka sahi dhang seekhe hum…" — it's a tune almost every Indian kid knows by heart from the Hindi version of Doraemon. But imagine hearing it sung in its original Japanese. That’s exactly what <em>Kira</em>, a J-pop vocalist from Tura, did, and it was like a jolt of nostalgia with a fresh twist. Her performance had kids joining in, even if they didn’t know the words, their excitement bridging the language gap.</p>

<p>As the evening took its turn into something darker, things took a different turn with <em>Lillies and Remains</em>. The Japanese duo’s sound was haunting, introspective, and deep. It wasn’t flashy—it didn’t need to be. The performance felt like something you had to sink into, each note pulling you deeper into a cultural conversation that was as much about atmosphere as it was about sound.</p>

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<p>It’s not every day you see someone who looks like they’ve stepped right out of an anime, but then came <em>Nonoc</em>. With her pixie-cut hair and quirky outfit, she already had the crowd’s attention before she even sang a note. When she performed the Re:Zero theme song, the energy in the arena shifted. Phone lights came out, voices joined in, and for a few minutes, it felt like the whole crowd was part of something bigger.</p>

<p>The night seemed to flow effortlessly, with one captivating moment blending into the next.</p>

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<p>However, there’s usually that lull between performances—the soundcheck, the instrument setups—that’s when the audience starts to drift. But not this time. As the band <em>Newspeak</em> prepared for their main set, Rei casually sang Cold/Mess by Prateek Kuhad, and suddenly, the audience wasn’t waiting anymore—they were listening. His soulful rendition turned what’s usually dead time into something intimate and special, keeping everyone hooked until the full band came together to deliver their main act.</p>

<p>As one moment seamlessly led to another, the festival kept its momentum alive, ensuring there was never a dull pause in the evening.</p>

<p>The festival grounds fell silent as Yukiko-san stepped forward, her commanding presence drawing all eyes. With measured grace and clear authority, she began explaining the ancient rituals of sumo wrestling, her voice carrying across the arena as the two wrestlers of the <em>Hirakuza Sumo Team</em> stood at attention. “Sumo is not just about size,” she explained, each word carefully chosen, “it is about respect, technique, and centuries of tradition.”</p>

<p>What followed was a masterclass in Japanese sporting culture. At Yukiko-san's commands, the wrestlers demonstrated the fundamental movements of sumo, their powerful bodies moving with surprising agility. The audience gasped at the thunderous collisions, the strategic footwork, and the lightning-quick victories that sometimes lasted mere seconds. For most of the crowd, this was the first time they were witnessing sumo wrestling in person—it had always been something they had seen only on TV. It was a fascinating and thrilling sight for them.</p>

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<p>As Yukiko-san would call out, the wrestlers would adjust their mawashi (wrestling belts), performing the time-honoured preparation rituals. “Tachiai!” she commanded, and they would crash together like mountains meeting, the impact echoing across the festival grounds. Between bouts, she explained the significance of each movement, each ritual.</p>

<p>The real magic happened when Yukiko-san invited audience members to participate. “Who wants to challenge our champions?” she asked. Several brave (or perhaps foolhardy) festival-goers made their way to the stage, where they were helped into padded sumo suits, their nervous laughter turning to determined grins as they faced their professional opponents. One particularly memorable bout featured a man who found himself airborne within seconds, landing with a theatrical bounce that had the whole arena roaring with laughter.</p>

<p>The demonstrations evolved over the festival’s two days, with Yukiko-san building on the previous day’s lessons to showcase more complex techniques and strategies. The audience, now somewhat educated in sumo basics, responded with knowing “oohs” and “aahs” at particularly skillful moves, calling out the Japanese terms they’d learned with endearing enthusiasm if not perfect pronunciation.</p>

<p>The festival buzzed with energy, building up to its grand finale—the cosplay contest, where creativity and cultural exchange took the spotlight.</p>

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<p>Backstage, the cosplay scene had its own buzz. Contestants were adjusting their wigs, perfecting their poses, and waiting patiently for their turn to hit the stage. Some had been waiting for hours, but the excitement never waned. Each person was fully immersed in their character, bringing them to life with every little detail.</p>

<p>When they finally stepped onto the stage, it was clear these weren’t just costumes. Each character represented something deeper—a piece of the shared culture and creativity between two worlds. The atmosphere was electric, with every move and every detail showcasing the unique bond that had come together in this moment.</p>

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<p>And the interactive stations? They were like tiny windows into Japan—each origami fold, each brushstroke in calligraphy, and each Lolita fashion try-on, another way to make the unfamiliar familiar.</p>

<p>The vibe at the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival was as different as it was unexpected. The contrast between the buzzing main stage and the cosy, laid-back atmosphere of the Japan Arena was undeniable. But by the end, it was clear these worlds weren’t so far apart after all.</p>

<p>What started as a clash of cultures became something else entirely—a fusion that worked in ways no one expected. Whether it was local girls dancing to J-pop or the cosplay contestants living out their character moments, the festival wasn’t about perfect blending. It was about embracing differences, making space for what felt right, and turning those moments into something unforgettable. As the fireworks lit up the sky, the message was simple: sometimes, the most unexpected pairings make the best show.</p>


Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival dazzles with Japan arena. The event celebrated cultural ties with Japanese arts and technology.

Photo by India Today NE

Festival within festival: Japan arena at Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival

<p>Meghalaya's North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Nirmalendu Saha, announced that the two-member committee, appointed by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, will soon visit the campus to investigate the alleged mismanagement and administrative failures.</p>

<p>Speaking to reports, the Acting VC stated that the committee will take action once a report is ready, informing that he spoke with the Ministry of Education over the phone.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ :&nbsp;<a href="https://www.indiatodayne.in/meghalaya/story/meghalayas-nehu-crisis-acting-vc-urges-students-to-end-hunger-strike-appeals-for-unity-1123188-2024-11-19">Meghalaya's NEHU crisis: Acting VC urges students to end hunger strike, appeals for unity</a></strong></p>

<p>Professor Saha further explained that the Ministry of Education had requested him to submit relevant documents, following which a committee was formed including representatives from the NEHU Teachers' Association (NEHUTA), NEHU Students' Union (NEHUSU), Khasi Students' Union (KSU) - NEHU unit, senior professors, and other stakeholders.</p>

<p>Further, as per media reports, the Acting VC informed that the university committee is expected to submit the information to the ministry by November 19.</p>

<p>The hunger strike by agitating students of Meghalaya's North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) entered its 15th day on November 19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The students have raised demands, including the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Professor Prabha Shankar Shukla, the Registrar, Deputy Registrar and other officials.</p>


The Union Ministry of Education has appointed a committee to address protests at NEHU, Meghalaya, amid allegations of mismanagement. Students demand resignations of top officials.

Meghalaya: Union ministry committee to visit NEHU amid ongoing protests

Elections

<p>Tura Lok Sabha constituency is one of the two Lok Sabha constituencies in Meghalaya state in northeastern India.</p>

<p><strong>Table 1:&nbsp;2019 General Election Results in Tura Lok Sabha Constituency</strong></p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center"><strong>Party</strong></td>
			<td class="text-align-center"><strong>Candidate</strong></td>
			<td class="text-align-center"><strong>Votes</strong></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center">National People's Party (NPP)</td>
			<td class="text-align-center">Agatha Sangma</td>
			<td class="text-align-center">304,455</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center">&nbsp;Indian National Congress&nbsp;(INC)</td>
			<td class="text-align-center">Mukul Sangma</td>
			<td class="text-align-center">2,40,425</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center">Bharatiya Janata Party&nbsp;(BJP)</td>
			<td class="text-align-center">Rikman Garrey Momin</td>
			<td class="text-align-center">31,707</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p>In the 2019 General Election, NPEP candidate Agatha K. Sangma emerged victorious with a significant victory margin of 64,030 votes, securing a total of 3,04,455 votes. Sangma's triumph was against Dr. Mukul Sangma of the INC, who garnered 2,40,425 votes in a closely watched electoral contest.</p>

<p><strong>Table 2:&nbsp;Demographics of Tura Town (Based on 2011 Census)</strong></p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center"><strong>Demographic</strong></td>
			<td class="text-align-center"><strong>Statistics</strong></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center">Population</td>
			<td class="text-align-center">74,858</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center">Garo Population</td>
			<td class="text-align-center">54,750</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center">Literacy Rate</td>
			<td class="text-align-center">70% (Male: &gt;67%, Female: &gt;67%)</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p>The demographic landscape of Tura Town, according to the 2011 census, reveals a population of 74,858, predominantly comprising indigenous Garo people. With 54,750 Garo individuals constituting 73% of the city's population, Tura remains deeply rooted in its indigenous heritage. The town's literacy rate stands at an impressive 70%, surpassing the national average, with both male and female literacy rates exceeding 67%.</p>

<p><strong>Table 3:&nbsp;Language Composition of Tura</strong></p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 396px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center" style="width: 181px;">Language</td>
			<td class="text-align-center" style="width: 204px;"><strong>Number of Speakers</strong></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center" style="width: 181px;">Garo</td>
			<td class="text-align-center" style="width: 204px;">54,575</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center" style="width: 181px;">Bengali</td>
			<td class="text-align-center" style="width: 204px;">12,113</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center" style="width: 181px;">Hindi</td>
			<td class="text-align-center" style="width: 204px;">3,563</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center" style="width: 181px;">Nepali</td>
			<td class="text-align-center" style="width: 204px;">1,609</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center" style="width: 181px;">Other Languages</td>
			<td class="text-align-center" style="width: 204px;">11,911</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p>The linguistic diversity of Tura is evident, with Garo being spoken by 54,575 people, followed by Bengali (12,113), Hindi (3,563), Nepali (1,609), and other languages (11,911).</p>

<p><strong>Table 4:&nbsp;Candidates for 2024 Election in Tura&nbsp;Lok Sabha Constituency</strong></p>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center"><strong>Party</strong></td>
			<td class="text-align-center"><strong>Candidate</strong></td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center">National People's Party (NPP)</td>
			<td class="text-align-center">Agatha Sangma</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center">&nbsp;Indian National Congress&nbsp;(INC)</td>
			<td class="text-align-center">Saleng A. Sangma</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td class="text-align-center">All India Trinamool Congress (AITC)</td>
			<td class="text-align-center">Zenith Sangma</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

<p>As the 2024 Lok Sabha elections approach, the candidates vying for the Tura constituency have been finalized. Agatha Sangma from the NPP, Saleng A. Sangma from INC, and Zenith Sangma from AITC have received their party's tickets, setting the stage for another fiercely contested electoral battle.</p>


Tura Lok Sabha constituency in Meghalaya, known for its high-profile electoral battles, braces for 2024 General Election. The contest will see Agatha Sangma from NPP, Saleng A. Sangma from INC, and Zenith Sangma from AITC vying for the coveted seat.

Tura Lok Sabha Constituency, 2024 General Election, Meghalaya, Agatha Sangma, NPP, Saleng A. Sangma, INC, Zenith Sangma, AITC

elections

Tura Lok Sabha Constituency - Know your candidates, , population, last election results

<p>The Meghalaya High Court on October 21 directed all construction activities around the Umiam Lake to be kept in abeyance till the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) and the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) come up with a more detailed report on whether it would be permissible to allow their completion.</p>

<p>The HC, which was hearing a PIL, passed the order after a report filed by the KHADC revealed that the findings of the joint inspection conducted with the PCB (on September 5-6) found seven establishments had constructed buildings within 300 m of the highest flood level (HFL) of the lake.</p>

<p>“No future construction in or around the Umiam Lake, at least within 1000m from the HFL, will be allowed before strict norms for such construction and treatment of effluence are put in place, after leaving a no-construction buffer zone of about 500m from the HFL, by the appropriate authorities,” it directed.</p>

<p>Several of these structures, including projected guest homes and restaurants, are now under development but have not yet been finished.</p>

<p>According to the KHADC report, clearance from the local authorities was obtained for the building.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Permissions had also been received from the PCB in certain situations, but there did not appear to be any law on the length of the construction, the nature of the construction, or any limit or regulation in such respect, it stated.</p>

<p>The bench also added that even if an establishment is discovered to have built the structure with some type of approval, strict requirements must be enforced to guarantee that the purity of the water below or the beauty of the surroundings is not negatively affected.</p>

<p>“For such purpose, the district council in conjunction with the PCB will indicate the extent of further construction that may be allowed after going through the construction plans in respect of those establishments where the construction has not yet been completed.”</p>

<p>In the case of completed projects, the KHADC and the PCB will be free to indicate whether any part of the structure must be demolished in the larger public interest or what strict conditions must be met before taking up or continuing the activity at the relevant establishment, according to the bench.</p>

<p>It instructed that the authorities keep in mind that the closer an institution is to the water or the HFL, the tougher the standards must be.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bench hoped that KHADC would apply the same guidelines to its own guesthouse, which is said to be located on a vantage point overlooking the lake. The next hearing is scheduled for November 15.</p>


Meghalaya High Court on October 21 directed all construction activities around the Umiam Lake to be kept in abeyance till the KHADC and the MSPCB come up with a more detailed report on whether it would be permissible to allow their completion

Meghalaya High Court

Meghalaya High Court rules out to halt all construction near Umiam Lake

<p>Local Students of the North Eastern Hills University (NEHU) under the leadership of the Khasi Student Union (KSU) NEHU unit on October 20 hold a rally to demand sustainment of the 10% reservation for the students of the state that the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It can also be pointed out that the Vice-Chancellor (VC) of NEHU on Thursday, gathered the academic council to discuss the matters relating to the functioning of the University along with matters relating to the 10% reservation.</p>

<p>The finance secretary of the NEHUSU, Wailed Siangshai talking to reporters stated that it has come to the notice that NEHU will be calling off the 10% reservation policy for the students who originally belong to the state and instead implement the addition of 10 Points or marks to the local students of the state for admissions into the University.</p>

<p>Wailad, the finance secretary also added that the students are already confused with the process of admissions in accordance with the CUET which had also put the local students who might consider taking admission to this University in the future.</p>

<p>"The mass protest to the Hall where the academic council of NEHU is holding a meeting is to let the VC know about the issue and to also discuss this 10% reservation or the weightage which is meant for the local students of the State for admission in NEHU" stated Wailad.</p>


Local Students of the NEHU under the leadership of the KSU NEHU unit on October 20 hold a rally to demand sustainment of the 10% reservation for the students of the state that the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo.

Khasi, Jaintia and Garo students of NEHU demand 10% reservation

Meghalaya: Khasi, Jaintia and Garo students of NEHU demand 10% reservation

<p>Meghalaya Home Minister Lahkmen Rymbui raising concerns on the rising usage of tear-gas on protesters stated that if it was found that the use of tear gas against protesting teachers last week went beyond what the law allows, action will be taken against the authorities involved.</p>

<p>The Meghalaya Government Lower Primary Contractual Teachers' Association (MGLPSTA) stormed the state's Secretariat Building in Shillong, supported by family members<br />
on October 6.</p>

<p>Despite the presence of women and children, security forces used tear gas to disperse the protesters.</p>

<p>Surprisingly, no female police officers were dispatched to handle the commotion, and only male officers were deployed.</p>

<p>Many people, including the opposition TMC, condemned the incident. Leaders of the United Democratic Party have also urged Rymbui to take action, citing the incident's widespread condemnation.</p>

<p>Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator AL Hek on October 7 condemned the tear gas incident on October 6 and demand the step down of the Home Minister on Moral grounds.</p>

<p>Rymbui's UDP colleagues defended him, claiming it was impossible for the minister to make judgments on many topics affecting teachers since the finance department was not under his control.</p>

<p>According to the home minister, everyone in a coalition administration has a common obligation to serve Meghalaya. “It's not a question of one man, but we have to see if we can together resolve the issue at hand, we should resolve it”, he added.</p>


Rymbui raising concerns on the rising usage of tear-gas on protesters stated that if it was found that the use of tear gas against protesting teachers last week went beyond what the law allows

Lahkmen Rymbui, Meghalaya Home Minister

Officials to face punishment if tear-gas used beyond limit during teachers' protest: Meghalaya Home Minister

<p>Alphonse A Sangma, the two-time Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) from the Congress party, is likely to join the National People's Party (NPP) in the next week of October in Siju, said party sources.</p>

<p>The former CEM of GHADC, who represented the Siju MDC constituency for around twenty years and also served as an Executive member of land and revenue and even Chairman of GHADC, has long advocated for increased development of Siju given its enormous tourism potential.</p>

<p>The NPP-led MDA government's decision to establish a development block for Siju appears to have backed the senior politician in favor of the Conrad K Sangma-led party.</p>

<p>The NPP's acceptance of Alphonse Sangma would create a major void for Congress in the Siju area, where it was once the dominant political force for decades.</p>


The NPP's acceptance of Alphonse Sangma would create a major void for Congress in the Siju area, where it was once the dominant political force for decades

Ex CEM Alphonse A Sangma in white check shirt

Meghalaya: Ex-CEM Garo Hills Autonomous District Council to join National People's Party

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