26/05/2025
Where Is the Promise? Mini Secretariat in Tura Still Awaiting Foundation While Jowai Nears Completion
In the race for equitable development across the three major regions of Meghalaya — Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills, and Garo Hills — a glaring question has emerged: Why has the construction of the Mini Secretariat in Jowai advanced significantly, while the Mini Secretariat promised in Tura has not even begun?
To be clear, we do not oppose infrastructure development in Jowai or any other part of our state. Every region deserves progress and access to key administrative services. But the disparity in implementation between these projects is deeply concerning and suggests an unequal approach to regional development.
The Hon’ble Chief Minister had publicly declared the construction of Mini Secretariats in both Tura and Jowai — a welcome step in theory. However, while Jowai's Mini Secretariat is nearing completion and even the foundation work for the new Secretariat complex in Shillong has begun, Tura’s project remains frozen in time. Despite the government recently sanctioning Rs. 159.7 crore for Tura’s Mini Secretariat, not a single brick has been laid, and there is still no visible movement on the ground.
This raises serious questions: Why was the process delayed for over a year after the announcement? With only two years left before the next General Elections, is there even enough time to complete the project? Or is the sudden release of funds merely a political calculation — a move to pacify growing frustration in Garo Hills before the polls?
The people of Tura gave their full mandate to the present government, placing their trust in its promises of inclusive development. Yet the way development is unfolding in Tura tells a different story — one marked by neglect, delay, and questionable intent. The contrast becomes sharper when one sees construction activity already underway in Shillong and Jowai, while Tura remains sidelined.
We ask the Government of Meghalaya:
Why has the Tura Mini Secretariat project not commenced even after funds have been sanctioned?
What caused this prolonged delay in a project that was announced over a year ago?
Will the government guarantee a time-bound action plan and ensure completion before the next elections?
If the government truly believes in unity and balanced development across Meghalaya, then it must act decisively. Tura deserves more than just promises — it deserves delivery. Development should not be dictated by geography or politics, but by fairness and commitment to all regions equally.
Let the Mini Secretariat in Tura be a symbol of that commitment — built not merely on paper, but with urgency, integrity, and purpose.
