Shillong, Apr 15: The Voice of the People’s Party (VPP) has declined to participate in the All Party Committee on Railway Connectivity in Meghalaya, citing concerns about unchecked influx into the state. According to VPP general secretary Ricky AJ Syngkon, introducing railway lines without addressing these concerns would compromise the interests and identity of the indigenous population.

IN the letter to the state Chief Secretary, DP Wahlang stated that the VPP believes that protective mechanisms to regulate influx must be in place before considering railway connectivity.

The party also advocated implementing ILP to prevent unchecked influx, prioritizing this over railway discussions.

Syngkon stated that discussing railway connectivity without addressing fundamental concerns would waste time and resources.

The Meghalaya government constituted an all-party committee to examine railway connectivity, chaired by the Chief Minister or a nominated Minister.

The party’s opposition to railway lines in Khasi and Jaintia Hills is rooted in concerns about the influx and associated issues, as outlined in their 24-point manifesto.