Shillong, April 21: The Meghalaya Government has urged the Voice of the People Party (VPP) to participate in the upcoming all-party meeting on railway connectivity and raise their concerns there instead of opting out.

“They should attend the meeting and air these concerns in the all-party meet,” said Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong.

The VPP, however, has declined to take part, stating that the issue of implementing the Inner Line Permit (ILP) must be addressed before any discussions on railway connectivity can begin.

Tynsong recalled that during the recent budget session of the State Assembly, the topic of railways was discussed. At that time, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma had assured the formation of an all-party platform to facilitate dialogue, especially since the Government of India is keen to bring the entire state, including Khasi and Jaintia Hills, into the Indian Railways network.

He acknowledged that due to objections from various stakeholders, progress had stalled. “That’s why the all-party meeting was created—to give every party a space to voice their concerns and participate in meaningful consultations,” he said.

Tynsong also emphasized that the government will listen to the people and not go against their wishes.

On Monday, the VPP formally declined to be part of the All-Party Committee constituted to examine the railway issue. The party said discussions on implementing the ILP and other effective mechanisms to check the influx of outsiders should take precedence over talks on expanding railway connectivity.

Read: Tynsong seeks drainage maintenance to prolong life of roads

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