SHILLONG, NOV 13: The Hynñiewtrep Youths’ Council (HYC) on Friday strongly objected to the use of the name ‘Barapani’ instead of ‘Umiam’ by the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) in its press release announcing the signing of a Taj Resort in Meghalaya.
In a statement, the HYC said the location is locally and historically known as ‘Umiam’, and its identity must be respected and recognised.
“The location is locally and historically known as ‘Umiam’, and its identity must be respected and recognised,” the HYC said.
The Council called upon IHCL, as the hospitality company announcing and promoting the Taj Resort, to clarify why it has used the name ‘Barapani’ in its official press release issued on November 12, 2026, and to immediately correct the reference in all its corporate records, press releases, promotional materials and future communications.
It also sought a clarification from Umiam Hotels Pvt. Ltd., the local partner in the project, on its role and position regarding the use of the name ‘Barapani’ and whether it has endorsed or consented to the reference.
“The local partner must also ensure that the identity and locally recognised name of Umiam are respected in all project-related documents and communications,” the HYC said.
The HYC demanded that both IHCL and Umiam Hotels Pvt. Ltd. provide clarification and confirm the necessary corrective measures forthwith.
“Failure to respond within a considerable period of time will leave HYC to consider taking further appropriate steps,” it warned.
While welcoming development, the Council made it clear that identity cannot be compromised.
“Development and investment are welcome in Meghalaya, but never at the cost of our indigenous identity and heritage,” the HYC said.
It concluded with a sharp assertion: “Our land has a name. It is Umiam, not Barapani!”
 on Friday strongly objected to the use of the name ‘Barapani’ instead of ‘Umiam’ by the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) in its press release announcing the signing of a Taj Resort in Meghalaya.){kind=link}