Shillong, July 16: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday announced that the Meghalaya Government will move a resolution in the State Assembly opposing uranium mining, reaffirming its firm stand against any attempt to undertake such activities in the state.
In a video statement, Sangma said the NPP-led government has consistently opposed uranium mining and would resist any proposal to introduce it in Meghalaya. “I have made it very clear a number of times that our government is against uranium mining, and we will oppose any form of attempt to have uranium mining in the state,” the Chief Minister said.
Sangma said he held a detailed meeting with a large number of National People’s Party leaders on Wednesday, during which they unanimously suggested that the state government and the Assembly adopt a resolution opposing uranium mining. “Based on the suggestions and decisions made by the NPP leaders, we are moving forward and will work towards passing a resolution to oppose uranium mining in our state,” he said.
The Chief Minister cited concerns over the possible impact of uranium mining on people, forests, the environment and Meghalaya’s future. He said the risks associated with uranium mining were too significant and reiterated that the government would remain firm in its opposition.The statement comes amid renewed discussion over the Centre’s position on uranium mining in Meghalaya.
Referring to Union Minister of State Dr Jitendra Singh’s recent visit to Shillong, Sangma said the minister had clarified that the Government of India had not taken any decision on uranium mining in the state and that the matter remained under examination. “His statement is very clear that the Government of India has not decided on any steps forward,” Sangma said.
