Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has said the state government will pass a resolution opposing uranium mining, and stated that it has never approved such activity in the state.
The announcement comes amid renewed speculation over the possibility of uranium extraction in Meghalaya.
Responding to speculations on uranium mining in Meghalaya, Sangma said the proposed resolution would reaffirm the government’s clear and consistent stand against uranium mining.
“The Meghalaya government has never approved uranium mining. To remove any ambiguity and reaffirm our position, the government will pass a resolution formally opposing and banning uranium mining in the state,” the chief minister said in a statement.
Sangma said the resolution is intended to address public concerns over the potential environmental and social impact of uranium mining, an issue that has remained contentious in the state for decades.
He said the move would also put an end to speculation surrounding uranium mining by clearly stating the government’s official position.
The proposed resolution comes against the backdrop of sustained opposition from local communities, who have raised concerns over the environmental, health and social implications of uranium mining.
Once adopted, the resolution will serve as the Meghalaya government’s formal policy position against uranium mining in the state.