EXCLUSIVE
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The controversy around the Mawjymbuin Cave in Mawsynram, Meghalaya has sparked significant debate. Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh stated that a cave cannot be dedicated solely to rituals of one religion, responding to a dispute regarding Hindu devotees performing prayers there.
“We have radicals in every group, every religions, every society, you have radicals people who speak without thinking and I am not surprised by these reactions but fact of the matter is that u can’t have a cave dedicated to rituals performance of rituals for only one single religion,” Lyngdoh said.
“ A lot of visitors come to Meghalaya to visit our Cathedral at Laitumkhrah , the church has never said that the cathedral should only be visited by Catholics so that kind of outlook is important,” he added.
The Mawsynram Dorbar Shnong has banned Hindu rituals in the cave, known for its naturally formed “Shiva Ling,” leading to threats of road blockades by the Kutumba Surakshya Parishad (KSP).
The annual Kanwar Yatra, an important pilgrimage for Hindus, culminates at this cave.
The decision to ban Hindu rituals has garnered support from various local organizations, as the Dorbar Shnong claims the move follows concerns about establishing a place of worship at the cave. The matter has reached Meghalaya High court now and is listed for Thursday.