Shillong : The Meghalaya Government has reiterated that uranium mining will not be permitted in the state, with Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar asserting that the government’s position remains firmly aligned with the wishes of the people.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Dhar said the government’s stand on uranium mining is clear and unchanged.
“We are very clear on that. We are not allowing uranium mining. The government stands with the people of the state. Whatever it may be with uranium, we are very clear we are with the people of Meghalaya,” he said.
Govt Responds to KSU Allegations
His remarks come after the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) alleged that some MLAs were purchasing land in Domiasiat at low prices and attempting to build public support for uranium mining in the area.
Responding to the allegation, Dhar said he was unaware of any such land transactions but maintained that no uranium mining project would be allowed without the consent of the people of Meghalaya.
“I am not aware about that. The only thing is that uranium is not allowed until and unless the whole state is on board,” he said.
He also assured that the government would verify the allegations made by the KSU.
“Obviously if there is an allegation, the government will verify whether it is right or wrong. That is top priority,” Dhar added.
No Discrimination in Development
Local residents have alleged that the Domiasiat area has been denied development projects because of its opposition to uranium mining.
Rejecting the claim, Dhar said the government does not discriminate while implementing development programmes.
“That is totally wrong. Whenever we provide development, the government never has any negative thinking behind it. Development is for everyone. We are distributing development equally across the state,” he said.
Govt Working to Improve Roads and Healthcare
On concerns over poor road connectivity and inadequate healthcare facilities in the region, Dhar acknowledged that more work is needed but said the government is making continuous efforts to improve infrastructure throughout Meghalaya.
He said the government listens to the demands of the people and provides roads and other development projects whenever resources permit.
“The road is there, but we are trying our level best as a government to improve road connectivity across Meghalaya. While we may not be able to provide every road immediately, we continue to respond to public demands as and when possible,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister reaffirmed that the government’s priority is balanced development across the state while respecting the sentiments of the people on the issue of uranium mining.