Shillong, April 17 : Green Tech Foundation (GTF) Chairman H. Bansiewdor Nonglang was admitted to Shillong Civil Hospital on Friday after his health deteriorated following a nine-day hunger strike opposing the proposed tourism project on Lumpongdeng Island in Umiam Lake.
Nonglang had been on an indefinite fast at Madan Malki, demanding that the state government scrap the lease of approximately 36 acres of Lumpongdeng Island to Umiam Hotels Private Limited (UHPL) for a period of 60 years. His condition worsened on the ninth day, prompting colleagues and supporters to insist on his hospitalisation.
Before being taken to the hospital, Nonglang, speaking in a weak voice, said his protest was not about himself but about protecting Umiam and Lumpongdeng. He stressed that failure to reclaim the island would be a loss for the indigenous community, while success would restore their ownership over the area.
He said he agreed to be admitted only after repeated appeals from fellow GTF members and supporters, who did not want his death to become the outcome of the protest. “I have fasted for nine days and done all I can as a leader, but I must also consider my people and colleagues,” he stated.
Calling on supporters to continue the movement, Nonglang urged them to remain steadfast and intensify their efforts. He appealed to the public to keep up the pressure on the government, continue prayers, and ensure that the protest gains strength even in his absence.
Emotional scenes were witnessed at Madan Malki as supporters and GTF members accompanied him to the hospital, reaffirming their commitment to the cause and vowing not to back down until their demands are met.
