Shillong: The Jaintia Students’ Union (Central Body) has called for Jowai to be declared the Summer Capital of Meghalaya, asserting that any move to designate Tura as the Winter Capital must be balanced with equal recognition for the Jaintia Hills region.
In a statement issued by General Secretary Neilkee Mukhim, the Union emphasised that Meghalaya is home to three major indigenous communities — the Khasis, the Garos, and the Jaintias — and that all should be treated equitably to maintain harmony and fairness within the state.
The Union expressed concern over the longstanding underdevelopment and infrastructure challenges faced by the Jaintia Hills, stating that granting Jowai the status of Summer Capital would promote balanced regional growth and ensure fair representation.
Warning against any unilateral decision by the state government, the Union said that excluding Jaintia Hills from the proposed seasonal capital framework would lead to widespread dissatisfaction.
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“If such disparity persists, the Jaintia Students’ Union, along with the people of the region, will be compelled to launch democratic protests and agitations,” the statement said.
Reiterating its stance, the Union declared it would not remain silent in the face of perceived inequality and would resolutely push for its demand if necessary.