Meghalaya Assembly unanimously opposes uranium mining in state

The Meghalaya Assembly on Wednesday adopted a resolution opposing uranium exploration and mining in the state, with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma moving the measure and securing support from the entire 60-member house.

The resolution specifically calls upon the Centre, the Department of Atomic Energy, and Uranium Corporation of India Ltd (UCIL) to refrain from permitting, pursuing, or undertaking any uranium mining operations within Meghalaya's boundaries.

Speaking during the debate, Sangma highlighted the health and environmental concerns associated with uranium mining elsewhere in the country. "We have seen the impacts of uranium mining in different parts of the country, where the health of people around mining areas has been affected," the Chief Minister stated.

Sangma noted that Meghalaya possesses substantial uranium reserves, and that previous attempts by the Centre to explore and develop these deposits have faced strong public opposition throughout the state. The unanimous backing of the resolution reflects broad political consensus on protecting Meghalaya's interests and safeguarding public health against potential mining-related risks.