Mawsynram: A Hindu religious yatra held at the Mawjymbuin Cave in Meghalaya’s Mawsynram on Sunday sparked tensions after organisers reportedly barred tourists from taking photographs and forced them to remove their shoes before entering the site.
The move drew strong criticism from local tribal groups and visitors alike, who asserted that the cave is a site of geological heritage, not religious worship.
Over 250 pilgrims took part in the yatra, which has faced growing opposition from the local Dorbar Shnong (village council) and indigenous community members.
They argue that the cave, known for its unique sandstone formations and limestone stalagmites, is being increasingly misrepresented as a religious site.
A tourist from Kolkata, Debojit, expressed his dismay after being asked to comply with the restrictions.
“We came here as tourists but were treated in a manner we found unacceptable. There should be clear justification for such rules. I’ve lodged a complaint with local authorities,” he said.
The annual yatra, which began only a few years ago, has become a flashpoint for tensions between cultural tourism and religious practice.
While the Meghalaya High Court recently allowed the religious procession to reach the cave, it specified that public order must not be disturbed during the event.
Despite the restrictions, observers noted an improvement in cleanliness around the cave compared to previous years, when yatra participants had reportedly left behind litter, including plastic bottles and used food containers.
Organisers of the yatra, who enforced stricter behavioural guidelines this year, said they were satisfied with the smooth and peaceful conduct of the event.
However, concerns remain over the cave’s mischaracterisation.
Renowned geologist Eladbor Laloo strongly rejected claims that the site houses a ‘Shiva Lingam’, explaining instead that the formation in question is a naturally occurring stalagmite.
“It is the result of limestone deposition over millions of years, not a religious icon,” Laloo said.
“This cave holds immense geological value and is visited by thousands of geology students every year for academic study.”
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He urged tour operators and local guides to present the site through a scientific lens, cautioning against imposing religious narratives on natural landmarks.
“Before assigning spiritual significance, tourists must verify the historical and geological background of the sites they visit,” he added.
Security was heightened during the yatra, with police and magistrates deployed in large numbers along the route to ensure law and order.
As debate continues over the site’s identity, local stakeholders have reiterated their call for Mawjymbuin Cave to be officially recognised and promoted as a geological heritage site.
