Meghalaya government strict on uranium mining, ban proposal will be approved

Shillong: The Meghalaya government will move a resolution to formally oppose and ban uranium mining in the state, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced on Thursday, reaffirming the government’s long-standing opposition to the contentious issue.

The announcement comes amid renewed speculation over possible uranium mining in Meghalaya and follows recent protests by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), which has raised concerns over alleged activities linked to uranium-rich areas in the state.

Sangma said the government has never approved uranium mining and reiterated that its position has remained unchanged.

“The Meghalaya Government will pass a resolution to formally oppose and ban uranium mining in the state,” the Chief Minister said, adding that the move is intended to remove any doubts about the government’s stand.

According to the Chief Minister, the proposed resolution reflects the government’s commitment to addressing longstanding public concerns over the potential environmental and social consequences of uranium mining. He said it is also aimed at ending years of speculation and uncertainty surrounding the issue.

The announcement comes days after the KSU intensified its opposition by demanding the closure of the Atomic Minerals Directorate (AMD) office in Shillong and warning against any attempt to revive uranium mining in the state.

The student body has alleged renewed efforts to push for uranium mining in Domiasiat and nearby areas, prompting the Chief Minister to earlier assure that the government would look into the matter.

Uranium mining has remained one of Meghalaya’s most contentious issues for decades, with local communities and civil society organisations consistently opposing any move to extract the mineral, citing concerns over environmental degradation, public health, and the impact on indigenous land rights.