Shillong, April 15: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday urged for direct dialogue between the Meghalaya government and the Green Tech Foundation (GTF) to address ongoing environmental concerns surrounding the proposed tourism project on Lumpongdeng Island.
BJP chief spokesperson, M Kharkrang, emphasized the need for face-to-face discussions, stating that issues raised by stakeholders could only be resolved through meaningful engagement rather than through public statements in the media.
He noted that although the government has expressed willingness to hold talks, there has been no formal discussion so far. Kharkrang appealed to those protesting the project to come forward and engage directly with the authorities to present their concerns and seek resolution.
Highlighting that the environmental issues raised by the GTF are “genuine,” he stressed that resolving such matters requires constructive dialogue across the table. He also pointed out that current communication between both sides has largely been limited to media exchanges, which may not be effective in finding a solution.
Kharkrang further stated that concerns over the ecological impact of the proposed construction on Lumpongdeng Island are valid and should be carefully considered by the government. He added that the demands raised are not unjust and deserve attention.
The remarks come amid an ongoing hunger strike by a GTF leader, who is demanding that the tourism project be scrapped due to fears of potential damage to the island’s fragile ecosystem.
The BJP expressed hope that both parties will engage in direct discussions soon to resolve the issue amicably.
