‘Earlier attempts to establish permanent government presence at the site were met with public resistance’
Shillong, Jan 31: Chief minister Conrad K Sangma has cited challenges of authority over the site, where the shocking theft of a rare prehistoric fossil took place in Garo Hills, in providing security to the priceless archaeological treasure there. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, the chief minister sought cooperation from the local community to allow government presence for further study and preservation of the site.
Terming rare incident at Tolegre in South Garo Hills “very sad and unfortunate situation”, Sangma said the site where the fossil was discovered belonged to the Nokmas and the Aking, making direct government intervention complex.
“We had challenges in the initial stage because the area falls under traditional authorities. It was very difficult for the government to completely take over the site, as that would have led to accusations of forcefully seizing land,” he said.
Meanwhile, he said, the government has provided security, restricted access, and requested the local people not to disturb the site until a team from Geological Survey of India is set up to examine the site.
Admitting that such an incident of theft in such remove place of Garo Hills was never expected by the government, he said, “To be very frank, we never expected that this kind of situation would happen. But it has happened. An FIR has been lodged, and an inquiry is under way.”
The chief minister expressed the hope that police would be able to retrieve the stolen fossil and identify those responsible in the act.
He also assured that Geological Survey of India (GSI) would continue to excavate the site for further findings.
“I feel we should not stop here. There may be more fossils in the area. Geological Survey of India team will continue its work,” he said.
“I also hope that, following this incident, the villagers will allow the state government to have a greater presence there,” he added.
He noted that earlier attempts to establish a permanent government presence at the site were met with public resistance, forcing authorities to take a cautious approach.
“When we initially tried to intervene, there was a lot of public reaction, so we had to step back. But now, with this unfortunate incident, I hope there will be more cooperation so that we can work together with the local community and experts to protect and study this important site,” he said.
