By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 7: National media’s swift labeling of Sohra as “crime-prone” following a single unfortunate incident has overshadowed the reality that most visitors experience safety, warmth, and genuine hospitality in this beautiful region. Tourists are now actively countering this negative portrayal, sharing their own stories that reinforce Sohra’s image as a welcoming destination.
Farooq Ahmed from Guwahati, who is visiting Sohra again, expressed his feelings of safety, stating, “I feel very safe here. I haven’t faced any problems-everything is good. I’ve visited many times and can say it is very safe for tourists. Everyone should come and enjoy the beauty of nature.” He acknowledged the unfortunate incident involving an Indore couple but emphasized that such occurrences are rare.
Tour operator Prasenjeet Sharma also addressed the incident, suggesting it could have been avoided if local guides had been engaged. “Such incidents can happen anywhere in the world. Tourism is thriving in Meghalaya, and I don’t think it accurately reflects the general situation in the state or the Northeast,” he remarked. Sharma pointed out that while infrastructure is improving, there is a need for education about the tourism industry’s benefits, which offers substantial employment opportunities. He stressed the necessity of mutual respect between tourists and locals.
Samarjit Sharma, a visitor from Kolkata, considered the incident a one-off occurrence, noting that he and his family had a wonderful time without any safety concerns. His wife, Sujata Sharma, added, “Everything is beautiful and safe. I never felt unsafe. Travellers should remain cautious, but we cannot condemn all of Meghalaya’s tourism because of one event.”
Jayana Shah from Mumbai, who has been in the area for several days, shared her positive experience, stating, “We’ve not felt any kind of threat. The locals are very friendly. Of course, you need to use common sense and avoid risky places-this applies everywhere.”
Vinod Maurya from Varanasi, currently working in Dubai, voiced similar sentiments during his family’s visit to Cherrapunji. “The people are cooperative, and we feel completely safe here. An isolated incident doesn’t define the place. We sought recommendations and are thrilled we came,” he said.
Newlywed Ritesh Ranjan Rout from Odisha echoed the idea that the state’s beauty should not be overshadowed by isolated issues, saying, “Meghalaya is wonderful. Sure, some may have bad intentions, but that doesn’t make the entire state unsafe.” Kaushik, visiting from Uttar Pradesh, reflected on his fifth trip to Sohra, affirming, “It’s beautiful and completely safe. I’ve never experienced any misbehavior from locals, and today I’m here with my family-we feel secure.”
The overarching message from these visitors is clear: One unfortunate incident should not tarnish the reputation of a region celebrated for its scenic beauty, warmth, and hospitality.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/06/08/visitors-praise-states-genuine-hospitality-safety/
Category: MEGHALAYA
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Publish Date: 2025-06-08 01:03:00
