SOHRA || In a strong show of unity and dignity, the people of Sohra held a peaceful rally today to protest against the defamation and negative portrayal of the region and its people by national media outlets and social media users, following the recent murder of Indore tourist Raja Raghuvanshi.
The rally, organized by the Working Committee of the Sordar Elaka Saitsohpen, began at 1 PM from the office of U Syiem Sohra and proceeded solemnly to the Dorbar Hall of Saitsohpen village where it culminated.
Hundreds of residents, including school children, village leaders, and local lawmakers, joined the march, with many holding placards with messages urging responsible journalism and condemning false narratives branding the region as “crime-prone.”
United in Peace, Hurt by Defamation
In recent weeks, social media platforms and several national media outlets speculated that the murder of tourist Raja Raghuvanshi may have involved local hostility. However, preliminary investigation revealed that the crime had no connection with local residents. It was allegedly orchestrated by Raghuvanshi’s wife and her partner, who reportedly hired contract killers.
Despite the clarification, public sentiment in Sohra was deeply affected by the initial media coverage that painted the area as unsafe and hostile to outsiders.
A Call for Responsible Journalism
Speaking at the rally, Sohra MLA Gavin Mylliemngap extended his full support to the people and praised the peaceful nature of the protest.
“Our community has always welcomed tourists with warmth and love. Tourism is our lifeline, and we will continue to offer hospitality and safety to every visitor,” he said, calling on media houses to issue clarifications and act responsibly in the future.
Local MDC Titos Starwell Chyne, village headmen, and the Sordars of Sohra were also present in a show of solidarity.
Placards held by participants carried strong but dignified messages such as:
“Always verify news before jumping to conclusions”, “If you don’t know the truth, better be silent because silence is golden”, “Sohra stands with tourists” and “Don’t point fingers at us without any proof”
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Tour Guides Speak Out
Ialamphang Diengdoh, President of the Meghalaya Tour Guide Association central body, expressed deep concern about the long-term impact of such misinformation on Meghalaya’s tourism industry.
“For decades, this region has been seen as one of the safest and most welcoming tourist destinations in India. False narratives not only hurt our people but also mislead potential visitors,” he said.
Diengdoh highlighted the growing trend of tourists relying on GPS and online influencers, as well as driver-cum-tourist guides instead of certified local guides, sometimes leading them into unsafe or restricted areas. He called for government intervention to mandate the use of local guides in tourist hotspots across Meghalaya, to ensure tourists’ safety.
“There is a clear difference between a driver and a trained guide. Local guides can ensure both the safety of tourists and the respect for local sentiments and traditions,” he added.
Tourists Reaffirm Meghalaya’s Safety
Among the crowd were a group of Delhi tourists who had been in Meghalaya for five days.
“This is our first visit, and we feel completely safe here. Even walking around at night felt peaceful. The people are warm and welcoming. What’s going viral on social media is nothing like what we’ve seen or experienced,” one tourist said.
Another urged the public not to associate one criminal case with the entire population. “Don’t tarnish an entire community for the actions of individuals who weren’t even from here. The people of Meghalaya are very hospitable.”
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A Community’s Message to the Nation
The rally concluded at the Saitsohpen Dorbar ground, where the protestors gathered together to condemn the negative portrayal and defamation of Meghalaya that has stirred nationwide controversy.
“Long live Meghalaya” said one local woman, while thanking the police force and everyone involved in cracking the case and reinstating the region’s pride and honour. “Sohra has a legacy that will be carried forward for generations” she said while praising the virtues of our land, describing it as the blessed land of God.
The community’s message was clear: while mourning a tragic loss, they are also standing against the misuse of media and misinformation. Their appeal to the nation is simple yet powerful, verify before vilifying.
(Edited by Ibalarishisha Syiem)
