Shillong, Nov 30: The Mahadev Khola Welfare and Trust has strongly objected to an NGO’s claim labelling priest families residing at Mahadev Khola as “illegal settlers,” urging the Meghalaya government to withdraw the term and issue a clear clarification on their status.
In a statement on Friday, the Trust said the families are direct descendants of late priest Shiv Narayan Mishra, whose lineage has performed daily rituals and maintained the Mahadev Temple for generations. It emphasised that the families have been living at the site since before Independence and well before Meghalaya achieved statehood.
Terming the “encroacher” tag both factually incorrect and deeply offensive, the Trust argued that such labels undermine the identity and contribution of the traditional caretakers of the temple while potentially fuelling divisive perceptions against non-tribal residents. It stressed that Mahadev Khola Dham is a sacred place of worship, not an arena for political interference, and warned that any disruption to the site would hurt Hindu sentiments and raise concerns about religious rights.
Calling for unity across communities, the Trust said the matter concerns justice and dignity for families who have safeguarded the temple for generations. It cautioned that if the government fails to act, it will approach the Prime Minister’s Office and pursue legal options.
The Trust also urged the government to officially recognise Mahadev Khola Dham as a religious heritage site, ensure adequate security, guarantee uninterrupted worship, and uphold the constitutional rights of all citizens.
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