Shillong, July 8: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Tuesday reiterated that the State Government is firmly opposed to uranium mining in Meghalaya, particularly in the South West Khasi Hills, asserting that the government’s position has remained consistent from the outset.

Speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister said the State Government has repeatedly made its stand clear through public statements and media interactions. He added that the government has also informed the Government of India that it does not support uranium mining in the state.

Sangma emphasized that the welfare, health and safety of local communities remain the government’s foremost priority. He said the administration believes in engaging with people through consultations and dialogue before taking any decision that could affect their lives, rather than imposing decisions without public consent.

Responding to allegations that certain groups or officials had recently visited uranium-bearing areas, the Chief Minister said he had not received any confirmed information regarding such visits. However, he assured that if it is established that any survey or visit took place without the knowledge or approval of the State Government, appropriate inquiries would be initiated and necessary action would follow.

Rejecting claims that the Meghalaya Government is supportive of uranium mining, Sangma described such allegations as baseless, reiterating that the government’s position has remained unchanged from the very beginning.

On the demand by various organisations for the State Government to adopt a formal resolution opposing uranium mining, the Chief Minister said the government would examine whether such a resolution is required. Nevertheless, he maintained that the government’s stand is already unequivocal.

“My government will not allow uranium mining in Meghalaya. I have been clear from the beginning,” Sangma asserted.