The day is Sunday, November 19 a slew of programmes under the aegis of Shillong Cherry Blossom 2023 will be held at Bhoi and this has come under attack from different strata of society.
STIEH an NGO came to the forefront demanding the festival to be cancelled after much pressure from organisations from Ri Bhoi which fall under the umbrella of the Joint Action Committee threatening to agitate at Madan Kurkalang at Bhoirymbong the place which the event was scheduled further demanding to shift the proposed date.
Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh in his reply to the JAC said that cinema halls, restaurants and other public entertainments should also be closed on a Sunday. Adding as to why they are agitating now as there have been many festivals in the past which fall on a Sunday.
Further the Tourism Minister said that such festivals can elevate the footfall of visitors attracting the best for the revenue of the state.
Countering claims, the JAC said that this is not the first time such programmes have been slated for a Sunday from top representatives of the Union government to other events which are sacred for Christians have been ushered on such a day.
The Shillong Cherry Blossom which will be held from 17 to 19 November, 2023 will feature top international artists such as Ne-Yo, Ronan Keating with others.
