Shillong, Aug 26 (IANS) Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday termed the unanimous adoption of a government resolution opposing uranium mining and uranium ore‑processing facilities in the state as a “historic” and significant moment.
Speaking after the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly passed the resolution, Sangma said the unanimous decision reflected a clear, collective position that the people of the state did not want uranium mining or processing activities in Meghalaya. He thanked members of the House across political lines for supporting the resolution, saying they had kept political differences aside on an issue concerning the rights, safety and future of the people.
Sangma noted that opposition to uranium mining had continued for several decades, with traditional institutions, civil society organisations, student groups and communities in areas where uranium deposits have been identified consistently expressing concerns. He said the Assembly’s resolution had now formally placed the collective position of Meghalaya and its people on record.
The state government will communicate the decision of the House to the Centre and urge it to take into account the concerns and constitutional rights of Meghalaya’s tribal communities, Sangma said. He underlined the state’s distinctive landholding system, where customary practices and constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule govern land. Issues concerning natural resources, he said, could not be viewed independently of the customary rights and ownership structures followed by indigenous communities.
According to Sangma, the resolution went beyond uranium extraction and also aimed to protect Meghalaya’s environment, traditional land rights, and the interests of future generations. The resolution adopted by the Assembly records the state’s opposition to uranium mining as well as the establishment of any uranium ore‑processing facility anywhere in Meghalaya.
Uranium‑bearing deposits have been identified in areas such as Domiasiat, Wahkijn and Lostoin. Proposed mining activities in the state have faced sustained opposition from local communities and various social and civil society organisations. Opponents of uranium mining have raised concerns about potential environmental and health impacts, displacement, and disruption of traditional livelihoods and land‑use practices.
The unanimous resolution gives legislative backing to Meghalaya’s long‑standing opposition to uranium‑related activities and provides a formal basis for communicating the state’s position to the Centre. Sangma said the government would continue to uphold the people’s interests while ensuring Meghalaya’s constitutional and customary protections remained central to decisions on land and natural resources.
–IANS
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