Tourism stakeholders in Meghalaya have condemned recent incidents of tourist harassment by local NGOs and pressure groups in popular destinations such as Sohra and Dawki. The industry reports a 30% loss in bookings and a potential 50% cancellation of tours due to these actions. On July 26, members of the Hynniewtrep National Youth Federation (HNYF) stopped vehicles registered in Assam at the Umtyngar junction, approximately 20 km from Shillong, demanding that tourists turn back.
Industry representatives urged these groups to stop intimidating tourists, stating that such actions damage the state’s reputation and economy. They highlighted recent lawlessness, including violence against workers, and noted a US travel advisory as a factor necessitating urgent action to restore normalcy.
The statement also addressed the HNYF’s demand for a policy restricting the entry of outside-registered vehicles carrying tourists, despite police efforts to maintain peace and order.
