Tura, March 24: The Joint NGOs Forum has decided to boycott the meeting convened by the Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills, citing serious procedural concerns and lack of proper representation in the committee tasked with the redevelopment of the cenotaph at Lower Babupara, Tura.

In a press statement issued Monday, the forum raised objections to what it described as inconsistencies in the committee’s formation process. Two notifications—both dated March 22 and bearing the same reference number (PA/CEN/2025/1)—were reportedly issued in different formats, one posted on the Deputy Commissioner’s official Facebook page on separate days. The hard copy of the notification was only received at 5:30 PM on Monday, which the forum said highlights irregularities in communication and transparency.

Interestingly, one notification named 8 members for the cenotaph redevelopment committee and was supposed to hold its first meeting on Monday at 4 PM while the second notification had 16 members is supposed to meet at 4 PM on Tuesday.

A key point of contention is the inclusion of the Deputy Commissioner and the CEO of the Tura Municipal Board as both chairman and committee members. The forum argued that their role should be advisory rather than decision-making, stating that their dual involvement raises concerns about ‘fairness’ of the decision-making process.

Another major concern raised by the forum is the inadequate representation of academicians, historians, social activist and members of the Joint NGOs Forum in the committee. “Given the historical and cultural significance of the cenotaph, it is imperative that experts in history and heritage be included in the decision-making process. The lack of proper representation from the Joint NGOs Forum further undermines the credibility of the committee, as community participation and consultation are essential for a fair and inclusive redevelopment process. The exclusion of key stakeholders raises doubts about whether the committee has been structured to genuinely reflect the sentiments of the people it seeks to serve,” it said.

Further, the forum pointed out that a letter highlighting these issues was submitted to the Chief Minister on March 23, 2025, but no official response has been received till date. In light of this, the forum maintained that it would be inappropriate for the forum to proceed with participation in the meeting until a formal response is provided.

“In view of these multiple irregularities, inconsistencies, and procedural delays, the Joint NGOs Forum stands firm in its decision not to attend the meeting. The forum urges the authorities to address these concerns and ensure that the redevelopment of the cenotaph at Lower Babupara, Tura, is carried out with fairness, transparency, and proper representation; only through meaningful engagement and adherence to democratic processes for the interests of the people be truly upheld,” the forum said in the statement.

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