Meghalaya Assembly Passes Resolution Against Uranium Mining

The Meghalaya Legislative Assembly on Wednesday adopted a resolution rejecting the exploration and mining of uranium in the northeastern state. The resolution, introduced by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, found favor with all 60 MLAs in the Assembly as all voted for it. The Meghalaya Legislative Assembly called upon the Central government, Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Uranium Corporation of India Ltd (UCIL) not to allow, conduct or undertake any uranium mining operations in Meghalaya.

Unanimous Support for Resolution Against Uranium Mining in Meghalaya

The Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, introduced the resolution in the Assembly which was backed by all 60 MLAs.

The resolution urged the Central government, Department of Atomic Energy and Uranium Corporation of India Ltd (UCIL) not to allow or conduct uranium mining operations in Meghalaya.

This decision comes after the several concerns regarding uranium mining and its repercussions for those residing near the mining areas.

Why is Meghalaya Against Uranium Exploration?

While presenting the resolution, Sangma has informed that Meghalaya has large reserves of uranium deposits.

In addition, he pointed out that earlier exploration and mining activities by the Center had been met with opposition by people in the state.

As per the information given by the Chief Minister, the issue has also been raised due to the experience of uranium mining in other parts of India.

Sangma mentioned that there were complaints of health hazards caused to people living near mining sites in other parts of the country. This is one of the reasons why people do not want to take risks in their state.

What is Expected From the Center as Per the Resolution?

The resolution expects three prominent bodies to abstain from uranium mining activities in Meghalaya. These are as follows,

• Government of India
• Department of Atomic Energy
• Uranium Corporation of India Ltd (UCIL)

The resolution aims to stop permission to any uranium mining and exploration activities in the state.

Issue of Uranium Mining in Meghalaya

The issue of uranium exploration in Meghalaya has been a delicate matter with environmental and public health considerations playing a critical role in the opposition against mining.

The concern has been articulated from the side of the government of Meghalaya considering the concerns that have been raised by the local population regarding the previous acts of exploration.

However, uranium is still considered a very important strategic mineral due to the importance of nuclear power programme in India.