Raphael Warjri

Shillong, January 19, 2024: The Director, Sports & Youth Affairs, Meghalaya has informed that on the morning of 19^th January, 2024, a person entered the premises of the newly inaugurated Pa Togan Nengminza Athletic Stadium, Tura and deliberately caused damage to a part of the track. The individual responsible for this act has been apprehended by the police and legal proceedings are underway.

While causing damage or destruction to government property is a punishable offense, it may be noted that such actions undermine community resources meant for public well-being and development of sports. The Pa Togan Nengminza Athletic Stadium, Tura serves as a vital sporting infrastructure for athletes of the region, students and the youth of Tura who aspire for a sporting legacy of their own, besides being a tribute to this freedom fighter. This malafide act of vandalism not only disrupts the functionality of the Athletic Track but is a setback to the hopes and aspirations of our children, while also reflecting a blatant disregard and lack of responsibility for shared community spaces.

Therefore, the citizens are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity around newly created public facilities meant for the betterment of society. Cooperation and joint responsibility of the community is crucial in preserving our shared assets.