We invited the Taj Group to comment on the allegations found in the Wire on 9th June 2024 and 8th August 2024

Responses were also sought to the following questions.

1. Could you provide details on the MOU reportedly signed in August 2024 regarding the Taj Hotels project near Kaziranga National Park, including the project's scope, timeline, and how it aligns with recent media reports?
2. What is Taj’s position on the recent violent attacks against activists Manohar and Ritupan Pegu as well as Pranab Doley, who were collecting testimonies from displaced families?
3. How is Taj addressing concerns about the project's impact on local land, communities, and wildlife, and what steps are being taken to ensure transparency and mitigate negative effects?
4. Does the company have a policy on respect for the rights of human rights defenders in place, in line with the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights' Guidance on ensuring respect for human rights defenders? If so, what measures is it taking in line with such a policy? If the policy is not in place, does the company have a plan in place to develop such a policy?

The Taj Group did not respond.