SHILLONG, JUL 16: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday announced that the Meghalaya government will bring a unanimous resolution in the Assembly to oppose uranium mining in the state.

In a video statement, Sangma said the NPP-led government remains firmly against any attempt to take up uranium mining 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.

He informed that he held a detailed meeting with a large number of NPP party leaders on Wednesday.

During the discussion, party leaders unanimously suggested that the state government and the Assembly should pass a resolution opposing uranium mining.

“Based on the suggestions and the decisions made by the NPP leaders in the meeting yesterday, we are moving forward and we will be working towards passing a resolution to oppose the mining of uranium in our state,” Sangma said.

The Chief Minister cited environmental and social concerns behind the decision.
“We are aware about the different implications that it could have on our people, on our environment, on our forests and the overall impact that it can have on the people and the future of our state. There are too many risks involved. Hence, we are very firm that we will oppose uranium mining in our state,” he added.

The statement comes amid queries on the Centre’s stand on the issue.

Referring to a recent visit by Union Minister of State Dr Jitendra Singh to Shillong, Sangma said the minister had clarified to the press that the Government of India has not taken any decision on uranium mining in Meghalaya and the matter is still under examination.
“His statement is very clear that the Government of India has not decided on any steps forward,” Sangma said.