Shillong : The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) on Tuesday met UDP MLA from Ranikor, Pius Marweiñ, urging him to raise the issue of uranium mining in the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly and press the Conrad K. Sangma-led government to pass an official resolution opposing uranium mining in the state.
During the meeting, the KSU submitted its 20-point charter of demands to the legislator. However, the discussion mainly focused on the proposed uranium mining project in Domiasiat and nearby villages in the Ranikor constituency, where significant uranium deposits have been identified.
The Union said it met the MLA because he represents the constituency directly affected by the proposed mining activities.
Expressing concern, the KSU alleged that influential individuals are purchasing land in uranium-bearing areas and claimed that officials of the Atomic Minerals Directorate (AMD) and their agents have been frequently visiting the region.
According to the Union, these visits are aimed at persuading local residents to allow uranium mining, while some people opposing the project have allegedly faced intimidation and threats.
The KSU also highlighted the lack of basic infrastructure in Domiasiat, stating that the area continues to suffer from poor healthcare, inadequate educational facilities, lack of drinking water and other essential public services despite being rich in natural resources.
The Union urged the Meghalaya Government to clearly state its position during the ongoing Assembly session by adopting a resolution opposing any move by the Centre to undertake uranium mining in the state.
The KSU further sought safeguards to prevent land in uranium-rich areas from being purchased and later transferred to mining companies, including the Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL).
MLA Pius Marweiñ received the delegation and assured them that their concerns and demands had been noted.
The KSU has consistently opposed uranium mining in Meghalaya, maintaining that such projects pose serious environmental, health and social risks to local communities.