Shillong | 31 July 2025: Leader of the Opposition and senior Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader, Dr. Mukul M. Sangma, issued a series of strong criticisms against the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government during a press conference in Shillong on Thursday, targeting the administration’s handling of key issues including influx, district council funding, and coal mining.
Influx, MRSSA & ILP: “People Are Being Misled”
Dr. Sangma accused the MDA government of failing to address the pressing issue of illegal influx into the state. He claimed that the government’s actions regarding the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA) and the long-standing demand for the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) were nothing more than political rhetoric.
“The MDA government has failed to come up with an effective and transparent mechanism to check illegal influx. They are simply misguiding the people on MRSSA and ILP,” he stated.
He emphasized that the rights and identity of Meghalaya’s indigenous population were being compromised and urged the government to move beyond statements and take meaningful, constitutionally sound actions.
District Council Crisis: “Where is the Meghalaya State Finance Commission?”
Turning his attention to financial issues plaguing the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) and other ADCs, Dr. Sangma lambasted the Conrad Sangma-led government for inadequate support and delayed salaries, which he said have led to administrative paralysis.
“Where is the Meghalaya State Finance Commission?” he asked pointedly, highlighting the government’s lack of transparency and failure to strengthen grassroots governance in tribal areas.
He called for immediate remedial measures to restore the functioning of the District Councils and ensure the timely release of funds.
Coal Mining: “Kataki Committee a Sham, Government Mocking the Law”
On the contentious issue of coal mining, Dr. Sangma alleged that illegal coal mining activities continue unchecked, especially in East Jaintia Hills and parts of Garo Hills, despite government claims of regulation.
He described the Kataki Committee—set up to oversee coal-related issues—as a “sham” and “a tool to deflect blame,” arguing that it lacks both authority and intent.
“The government is playing with the future of our state. Instead of bringing sustainable development and justice, they are allowing the rich and powerful to exploit our natural resources while the common people suffer,” Dr. Sangma declared.
He warned that the failure to comply with past Supreme Court and National Green Tribunal (NGT) directives was endangering both the environment and the rule of law, and demanded a high-level independent probe into the ongoing illegal coal trade.
Final Appeal: “Time for Vigilance and Accountability”
Dr. Sangma concluded his remarks by urging the people of Meghalaya to remain vigilant and to demand accountability from those in power. He reiterated that governance should not be reduced to mere political posturing but must be rooted in responsibility, transparency, and commitment to the people’s welfare.
