March 6, 2025
Jowai, Shillong
The Jaiñtia National Council (JNC) staged a large-scale Black Flag Rally on Thursday to protest against the proposed railway project in Meghalaya’s Jaintia Hills.
Demonstrators marched through the streets with banners reading “We Reject Railway” and “Jaiñtia Rejects Railway,” signaling their strong opposition to the government’s expansion plans. The JNC’s resistance intensified following the failure of a similar railway initiative in Ri Bhoi district.
The organization condemned the state government for disregarding their long-standing memorandum against the project, reaffirming that they would not accept railway expansion unless stringent measures were put in place to regulate the influx of outsiders.
Protesters expressed concerns over unchecked migration, fearing it could disrupt the region’s cultural and demographic fabric. They emphasized that their demonstration was a testament to their commitment to protecting their land and traditions.
In response to the mounting opposition, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced plans for a meeting with political parties and stakeholders to address concerns surrounding the railway project and illegal immigration in the state.
