Push for Winter Capital in Tura gains momentum in West Garo Hills

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMarch 31, 2025

The A’chik State Peoples’ Front (ASPF) intensified its demand for Tura to be declared the Winter Capital of Meghalaya by organizing its 5th public meeting at Salbari Rabukong (Pedaldoba) in West Garo Hills on Saturday.

The gathering saw the participation of village leaders (Nokmas/Sorders) from over 50 villages, alongside representatives from various non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Key attendees included Malsin Marak, Secretary of the AYWO A’chotchonggre Regional Unit; Witjess Marak from the Constitutional Rights Forum (CRF); and Withing Marak, Secretary of the All-Garo Hills Merchant Association (AGHMA) Raksamgre Unit. Their presence further solidified the movement’s growing support.

One of the most impactful speeches was delivered by Kinjing Ch Sangma, the Nokma of Dandarigri A’king land, who urged elected representatives of the Garo Hills region to actively advocate for the cause and push for necessary legislative steps to make the Winter Capital a reality.

Echoing the sentiment, the Nokma of Dengangre stated that establishing a Winter Capital in Tura is a long-standing aspiration of the Garo people. He emphasized that such a move would bring government services closer to the people of the western region of Meghalaya and reduce the financial burden on citizens who currently have to travel to Shillong for administrative work.

Supporters of the campaign argue that Meghalaya’s current administrative structure is heavily centralized in Shillong, creating a geographical and economic disadvantage for the people of Garo Hills. The proposal for a Winter Capital in Tura aims to enhance accessibility, improve governance, and promote regional development in the western part of the state.

The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude from the Salbari Rabukong Nokma, followed by a solemn prayer, symbolizing the unity and determination of the people behind the cause. With each campaign, the demand for a Winter Capital in Tura is gaining traction, and ASPF continues to mobilize support from grassroots leaders, organizations, and civil society members to turn this vision into a reality.