Shillong: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Wednesday once again ruled out the possibility of uranium mining in Meghalaya, asserting that the state government has consistently opposed the proposal and will continue to act in line with the wishes of the people.
Responding to questions from reporters, Sangma said the government's position on uranium mining has remained unchanged despite the issue resurfacing from time to time.
"I've been very clear that we are not in favour of uranium mining. We've made it very clear to the Government of India and to the people. We are not at all in favour of uranium mining," he said.
The Chief Minister said the state government follows a policy of building public consensus before taking decisions on issues that have a significant impact on people's lives.
Citing the railway connectivity issue as an example, Sangma said Meghalaya has not pushed projects without public consultation despite the state's need for better transport infrastructure.
"We don't bulldoze. We take people into confidence. We believe in building consensus and ensuring that we share everything with the people," he said.
He maintained that the government has rejected proposals related to uranium mining on multiple occasions and accused some quarters of creating confusion by suggesting that the state had softened its stand.
"This issue has come to us multiple times, and we have rejected it multiple times. There is no need to confuse people by saying that the government is in favour of it. We are not," he said.
The remarks come amid reports of the alleged movement of officials linked to uranium-related activities in the state. Sangma said he had not received any official information regarding such visits but assured that the matter would be looked into.
"If there is any information and if such reports are brought to my notice, we will verify them and take appropriate steps," he said.
Asked whether the government would bring a formal resolution against uranium mining, Sangma said the administration would examine the need for one but stressed that the government's position was already unambiguous.
"I think the Chief Minister's statement reflects the government's stand. We will examine the need for a resolution if required, but our position is very clear-the government will not allow uranium mining," he said.
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