Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday announced the formation of a high-level committee to study and preserve the legacy of the Garo Labour Corps.
The Garo Labour Corps played a crucial role at the frontlines of battle during World War I.
The chief minister said the committee would be headed by a cabinet minister, which will comprise members of civil society organizations.
CM Sangma made the announcement following his meeting with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Tura on the legacy of the Garo Labour Corps.
The members of the CSOs called on the chief minister to register their strong protest against the dismantling of the century-old historic monument erected in memory of hundreds of Garo men who laid down their lives in France during the war.
The World War I cenotaph at Lower Babupara in Tura, regarded as a symbol of Garo honour and sacrifice, was recently demolished as part of a redevelopment project, sparking widespread outrage among the indigenous population of Garo Hills.
During the hour-long meeting, the CSOs raised their concern on the redevelopment of the cenotaph.
Civil society organizations (CSOs) condemned the demolition as a blatant disregard for the community’s heritage that was carried out without public consultation.
The chief minister informed the delegation that the committee will focus on researching the contributions of the Garo Labour Corps while also promoting the language and culture of the Garo community.
He underscored the importance of both preserving the Garo Labour Corps’ legacy and ensuring the cultural identity of the Garos is protected for future generations.
The Tura Municipal Board (TMB) and the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of West Garo Hills face criticism for the cenotaph’s demolition and redevelopment plans.
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Following the public backlash, the DC had earlier formed a consultative committee to address the issue.
However, the move was rejected by the CSOs, who cited alleged inconsistencies in its formation and functioning.
