SHILLONG: A meeting regarding the Mawjymbuin cave issue yielded positive results, with both parties reaching a consensus to address their respective concerns.
The meeting, held on Saturday, involved East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner R M Kurbah, representatives from Assam-based Kutumba Suraksha Parishad (KSP), and Mawsynram dorbar shnong.
KSP President Ranjan Borah, speaking to the media post-meeting, emphasised the importance of adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to safeguard the cave’s delicate stalagmite formations and other natural features.
“As responsible citizens, we have a fundamental duty to protect our environment,” Borah stated.
He also called for the avoidance of practices such as using lights, earthen lamps, incense, or creating excessive noise inside the cave, given its environmental sensitivity and status as a popular tourist destination.
While the dorbar shnong’s directive from the previous year was widely reported as a ‘ban’ on religious activities within the cave, Borah clarified that there is no outright ban.
Instead, there are specific restrictions in place aimed at preserving the natural beauty of the site.
Hindu devotees are still welcome to visit and worship at the cave from 9 am to 5 pm daily, with special provisions made during the sacred month of Shravan.
It was revealed that the KSP’s protests regarding the alleged ‘ban’ were influenced by two groups, the Seng Khasi Hima Mawsynram and the Meghalaya Indigenous Minority Tribals Forum.
Mawsynram dorbar shnong Assistant Rangbah Shnong and spokesperson Hiamdor Rapsang informed the press that the Deputy Commissioner presented a letter from the Seng Khasi headquarters clarifying that the Seng Khasi Hima Mawsynram was not recognised by the parent body.
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Rapsang further stated that this group does not act in the public’s interest but rather for personal gain.
Rapsang reiterated that Mawjymbuin cave is a tourist attraction and reiterated that it will not be designated exclusively as a place of worship.
“Tourists from all over India are welcome to visit the cave, but they must adhere to the SOPs set by the Mawsynram dorbar shnong. Visitors of any religion can come, but they must follow the guidelines,” he said.
The Mawjymbuin cave came into the spotlight in August of the previous year when the dorbar shnong imposed restrictions on religious activities after a Hindu group announced plans to organise a pilgrimage to the site.
