Jaintia Students Union demands summer capital

Shillong,May 13: The Jaintia Students’ Union has demanded that if Tura is declared as the Winter Capital of Meghalaya, Jowai must be given the status of Summer Capital.

“Meghalaya is home to three major indigenous communities namely the Jaintias, the Khasis, and the Garos. Hence all must be treated equally to uphold fairness and harmony in the state,” the JSU said.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Union pointed out that Jaintia Hills region remains underdeveloped and continues to face significant infrastructure challenges.

“In this connection, granting Jowai the status of Summer Capital would not only promote balanced development but also ensure equal representation among the communities,” the Union said.

It warned that any move by the state government to grant seasonal capital status to one region while excluding the Jaintia Hills will result in widespread dissatisfaction.

 “Should such disparity persist, the Jaintia Students’ Union, along with the people of the region, will be compelled to launch democratic protests and agitations to demand their rightful share”, it said.

The Jaintia Students’ Union also asserted that if such disparity occurs, the Union and the people of the region will not remain silent.

The A·chik State Peoples’ Front (ASPF) held its tenth Winter Capital Meeting on May 10, at Raksamgre in West Garo Hills. Representatives from various villages, including Sorder and Nokma, participated in the meeting, who contributed their perspectives and valuable insights.