Shillong, Mar 6: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma today said that a committee will be constituted to examine the long-standing demand for establishment of Winter Capital in Tura.
“As we discussed in the House, the suggestion came from one of our members from Rangsakona, and after debating the issue, the proposal to examine the demand was more or less accepted by everyone, including the mover of the resolution,” the Chief Minister said.
He informed that the committee would comprise representatives from all political parties, stakeholders, civil society members, and community leaders to conduct extensive consultations on the matter.
On what the Winter Capital would entail, he said that the proposal involves shifting the executive wing of the government, including ministers and the chief secretary, to Tura for a certain period, along with holding assembly sessions in the region.
He stated that the upcoming Integrated Administrative Complex in Tura, worth ₹170 crore, would serve part of the purpose by bringing government services closer to the people.
Talking on financial implications, the chief minister acknowledged that while costs would be involved, the larger message of integration and equitable development was more important.
“We cannot look at this only from the cost perspective. The message of reaching out to the people, involving everyone, and promoting inclusiveness is what matters the most,” he said.
The resolution proposing the demand was moved on Wednesday by Leader of the Opposition Dr. Mukul Sangma, who urged the government to examine the creation of a Winter Capital in Tura to ensure equitable and inclusive development of the Garo Hills region. Though the resolution was withdrawn after the government’s assurance, the Chief Minister termed the move as a positive gesture by the Opposition.
Several MLAs, including Deputy Speaker Timothy D Shira, Jim M Marak, Celestine Lyngdoh, Renikton Lyngdoh, Rupa Marak, Brening Sangma, Limison Sangma, and Subir Marak, participated in the debate during the session.
