Photo Courtesy: nenow
Shillong: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) branded the state government’s planned assembly resolution against uranium mining as insufficient. While welcoming Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma’s move as a first step, the group warns that a resolution lacks the legal muscle to permanently kill the project. Union leaders insist on binding safeguards to stop mining in Domiasiat and surrounding regions.
KSU general secretary Reuben Najiar pointed to statements by Union Minister of State Jitendra Singh, who noted the proposal remains under examination. Najiar argues this keeps the door wide open. “If the matter is still under examination, it means there is neither a yes nor a no. There remains a possibility that uranium mining could still be pursued,” he said. The union wants the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo Hills Autonomous District Councils to amend land laws, banning the sale or transfer of uranium-rich soil for extraction. They also demanded the immediate closure of the Atomic Minerals Directorate office in Nongmensong.
At a commemoration of the 191st death anniversary of freedom fighter U Tirot Sing Syiem, KSU president Raymond Kharjana raised alarms over land grabbing. He claimed influential figures are buying up property in Domiasiat, while new road projects suggest a hidden push for mining access. Kharjana vowed the union would fight to the end. “The KSU is prepared to sacrifice the lives of its members to protect the interests of the people and the land,” he declared.
BJP MLA Alexander Laloo Hek countered, asserting that the Centre cannot force mining without state and local approval. He pledged the BJP would support the government resolution if it matches the public will. Separately, the KSU renewed calls for an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to curb outsider influx. Kharjana urged his community to defend their identity, warning that failing to act risks indigenous people becoming a minority in their own home.
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