SHILLONG: In a dramatic turn of events, H. Bansiewdor Nonglang, Chairman of the Green Tech Foundation (GTF) Meghalaya, was rushed to Civil Hospital Shillong on Friday evening after his health deteriorated critically following a nine-day-long hunger strike.
The decision to evacuate Nonglang was taken after a team of medical professionals conducted an on-site assessment at Madan Malki, where he had been staging an indefinite fast since April 9. Doctors reportedly advised immediate hospitalisation, citing serious concerns over his rapidly declining condition.
Nonglang had launched the hunger strike in strong opposition to the proposed tourism project at Lumpongdeng Island in Umiam, an issue that has since sparked widespread public debate over environmental protection, land rights, and sustainable development in Meghalaya.
Shortly before being shifted to the hospital, a visibly frail Nonglang addressed a large gathering of supporters at the protest site. In an emotional appeal, he urged the public not to view his potential death as a victory for the movement, but instead to continue the struggle with renewed determination.
He called on citizens to accompany him to the hospital, stating that he would not go alone, while also urging supporters to maintain a strong presence at Madan Malki. He further appealed to the public to intensify their movement by taking their demands directly to the Secretariat, asserting that the people must not retreat in the face of government policies.
Even as he was being taken to the Emergency Centre, Nonglang reassured supporters not to worry about his personal well-being but to remain focused on safeguarding the future of Umiam and Lumpongdeng. He warned that failure to protect the area would amount to a historic loss for the community, whereas success would reaffirm the people’s rights over their ancestral land.
Reflecting on the toll of his prolonged fast, Nonglang acknowledged that while he was prepared to endure extreme hardship, his supporters and GTF leadership could no longer bear to see his condition worsen. He emphasised that the movement seeks a “living victory” rather than a sacrifice, urging continued prayers, public mobilisation, and a sustained presence at the protest site.
The ongoing protest at Madan Malki has now emerged as a focal point of resistance, drawing significant public attention and intensifying pressure on authorities over the contentious Lumpongdeng Island project.
