Shillong, July 8: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday unequivocally reiterated that his government remains opposed to uranium mining in the state, asserting that public consent and the interests of the people will continue to guide every major policy decision. His remarks assume significance against the backdrop of fresh concerns raised by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), which has alleged renewed attempts to revive uranium mining in Domiasiat. The KSU alleged that some prominent people, mostly former legislators, are approaching residents in Domiasiat to persuade them while buying land at low prices.
Addressing the issue, the Chief Minister underscored that the government’s position has remained unchanged despite the matter surfacing repeatedly over the years. He stressed that the State has consistently prioritised consensus-building over imposing decisions on major policy issues, citing the government’s cautious approach even on key infrastructure projects such as railway connectivity.
“I made it very clear that we are not in favour of Uranium mining, we made it very clear to the Government of India also. It’s not about the Uranium mining alone but if you look at all the decision that we have taken, specially the decision that impact the people at large we have been very clear that we will work into things in line with what is best interest of our people. Whether we talk of railways, we are may be the only State which do not have railway connection in the capital city or to the major region of the state. And it’s a big challenge but we don’t bulldoze. We are very clear that we must take people into confidence when we move forward in this aspect. So that is being the principle which we follow. We believe in creating consensus, we brief in ensuring that we are sharing everything with the people. Uranium mining is something that we all being concern about it. I have made my point very clear that we are not at all in favour of Uranium mining and this is an issue that has come multiple times to us and we have rejected it multiple times,” CM Conrad K Sangma said.
Responding to reports of people allegedly entering the area to persuade residents and facilitate land purchases, Sangma said the government would verify the information and take action if necessary.
“Regarding movement of people coming in and going out is something if any information comes to my office, obviously we will take act. I can check but as per my information goes I am not informed about it but since you have told me right now about the reports of movement I will find out and according mly will take action,” The CM said.
On the KSU’s demand that the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly adopt a fresh resolution against uranium mining, the Chief Minister indicated that the government would examine the proposal.
“As CM my statement is important, we will examine the need for resolution if it has to be,” he added.
The Chief Minister’s remarks came after the Khasi Students’ Union issued a strong warning against any move to revive uranium mining in Meghalaya. The union has vowed to oppose any attempt to restart uranium mining and has demanded that both the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly and the autonomous district council adopt resolutions reaffirming their opposition to uranium mining.
