Shillong, Jan 30: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma termed the theft of a rare prehistoric fossil from Tolegre in South Garo Hills as “very sad and unfortunate situation.”

He said that the land where the fossil was discovered belonged to the Nokmas and the Aking, making direct government intervention complex.

“We had challenges in the initial stage because the area falls under traditional authorities. It was very difficult for the government to completely take over the site, as that would have led to accusations of forcefully seizing land. Instead, we provided security, restricted access, and requested the local people not to disturb the site until a Geological Survey team could be set up there”, he said.

He admitted that while steps were taken to secure the area, the government did not expect such an incident to occur.

“We never expected, to be very frank, that this kind of situation would happen. But it has happened. An FIR has been lodged, and an inquiry is underway. We are hopeful that the police will be able to retrieve the stolen fossil and identify those responsible,” the chief minister added.

He assured that Geological Survey of India (GSI) would continue to escavate.

“I feel we should not stop here. There may be more fossils in the area, and this location could provide valuable scientific data. The Geological Survey of India team will continue its work. I also hope that, following this incident, the villagers will allow the state government to have a greater presence there.”

He noted that earlier attempts to establish a permanent government presence at the site were met with public resistance, forcing authorities to take a cautious approach.

“When we initially tried to intervene, there was a lot of public reaction, so we had to step back. But now, with this unfortunate incident, I hope there will be more cooperation so that we can work together with the local community and experts to protect and study this important site.”

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