TURA, March 24, 2025 : The Joint NGOs Forum has officially declined participation in the meeting convened by the Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills, regarding the redevelopment of the cenotaph at Lower Babupara, Tura. The decision stems from concerns over procedural inconsistencies, lack of transparency, and inadequate representation in the committee overseeing the redevelopment project.
A matter of significant historical and cultural importance, the cenotaph at Lower Babupara stands as a solemn tribute to the past, and any decisions regarding its redevelopment must be approached with due diligence and inclusivity. However, the recent constitution of the committee has raised serious apprehensions among stakeholders, particularly the Joint NGOs Forum, which represents key voices in the region’s civic and cultural discourse.
The most pressing concern is the issuance of two notifications, both dated March 22, 2025, bearing similar reference numbers. The first notification (No. PA/CEN/2025/1) appeared on the official Facebook page of the Deputy Commissioner yesterday, only to be reposted again today with identical details. Despite these repeated postings, the official hard copy of the notification was received only at 5:30 PM today. This irregularity raises questions about the procedural integrity and transparency of the process.
Moreover, the composition of the committee itself has been called into question. The inclusion of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Tura Municipal Board (TMB) and the Deputy Commissioner as both Chairman and members of the committee presents a fundamental conflict. Their roles should be confined to providing clarifications when required rather than occupying positions that influence the decision-making process. The presence of independent experts, scholars, and civil society representatives is crucial to ensuring that the redevelopment efforts align with historical accuracy, cultural significance, and public sentiment.
The Joint NGOs Forum has also expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of adequate representation from academicians, historians, and their own representatives within the committee. The preservation and redevelopment of historical landmarks demand intellectual and professional inputs, ensuring that such sites retain their authenticity while embracing necessary modernizations. The current committee composition does not reflect this necessity, further undermining the legitimacy of its decisions.
Adding to the frustration is the continued absence of a response from the Hon’ble Chief Minister to the forum’s earlier letter dated March 23, 2025. The silence from the higher administration on this critical matter only exacerbates concerns about the transparency and fairness of the entire process. Proceeding with the redevelopment initiative without addressing these legitimate grievances not only disregards due process but also sets a concerning precedent for future government-led heritage projects.
Given these unresolved issues, the Joint NGOs Forum has taken a principled stand by refusing to attend the scheduled meeting. The forum asserts that without proper representation, transparency, and procedural accountability, any decision taken by the current committee will lack the legitimacy necessary to gain public trust and acceptance.
The cenotaph at Lower Babupara is not just a structure; it embodies the collective memory of the people, their struggles, and their heritage. Any effort to redevelop it must be rooted in democratic consultation, historical accuracy, and cultural sensitivity. The Joint NGOs Forum remains firm in its position that only a properly constituted and balanced committee, inclusive of all key stakeholders, should oversee the project.
Until these concerns are adequately addressed, the forum urges the authorities to reconsider the current committee’s framework, engage in meaningful dialogue with civil society, and prioritize transparency over expedience. The people of Tura deserve a redevelopment process that honors the past while responsibly shaping the future.
