Govt stands with people, Uranium mining not allowed in Meghalaya: Dhar

SHILLONG, JULY 6: Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar on Monday reiterated that the Meghalaya government’s position on uranium mining is “very clear” — it will not be allowed in the state.

Dhar said the administration stands firmly with the people on the issue and there is no change in the government’s stand.

“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 told reporters.

The statement comes amid allegations by the KSU that some MLAs are buying land at Domiasiat at cheap rates and trying to convince locals to accept uranium mining.

Dhar said he was not aware of such claims, but stressed that mining cannot proceed unless the entire state agrees.

“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 added that the government will examine the allegation.

“Obviously if there is an allegation, the government will verify whether it is right or wrong. That is top priority,” Dhar said.

Responding to residents’ claim that the area is being denied development for opposing uranium mining, Dhar rejected it.

“That is totally wrong. You see, whenever we give development, the government never has any negative thinking behind that. Development is development. The government does not only bring development to the uranium area, across the state we are distributing equally,” he said.

On complaints about poor roads and health services, he said the government was trying to improve connectivity statewide.

“The road is there, but we are trying our level best as a government to give roads across the state of Meghalaya. But yes, we are not saying that we are giving perfect roads to whoever demands. But as the government we listen to the demands of the people, and whenever possible we provide roads,” he said.