Shillong: The Meghalaya High Court has directed an inspection of the St. Anthony’s Lower Primary School building located at Don Bosco Square in Shillong and sought a report detailing the building’s heritage status.
The court’s Division Bench, comprising Chief Justice IP Mukerji and Justice B Bhattacharjee, directed the Meghalaya Heritage Authority to nominate a senior official to inspect the school building, a colonial structure of significant architectural and historical value.
The court’s directive came in response to a public interest litigation filed by a Shillong-based artist, Raphael Warjri, who expressed concerns over the proposed demolition of the building.
The petitioner stated that the building is an Assam-type colonial structure and of significant architectural and historical value.
“Learned counsel for the petitioner also submitted that the school is actively proceeding to commence demolition work,” the court said.
The court ordered the authority to conduct a preliminary inquiry and submit a prima facie report.
The court also directed that a copy of the petition along with an appropriate notice be sent to the school authorities.
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The Meghalaya Heritage Authority has been empowered to invite views from the public on whether or not a building or site should be given the heritage tag.
The authority will weigh the public input, including objections and suggestions, before making a final decision.
Earlier, Fr. Saji SJD, Director of Don Bosco Technical School, said the historic structure will be replaced by a new four-story building designed to meet contemporary safety standards and accommodate the increasing student population.
The Meghalaya Urban Development Authority has approved the plans for the new building.
The decision to dismantle the historic building has evoked mixed emotions among alumni and the community. While the building symbolizes history and tradition, its age has raised safety concerns for students.
