From Our Correspondent
MAWKYRWAT, Oct 29: The KSU, which led the state’s anti-uranium movement, commemorated the third anniversary of Spility Lyngdoh Langrin’s passing. Known as the “Iron Lady of Meghalaya,” she became the symbol of the state’s opposition to uranium mining because she stood her ground and overcame all obstacles.
After the Atomic Minerals Directorate conducted exploratory drilling for uranium deposits in the 1990s, Langrin turned down a lucrative offer of Rs 45 crore from the central government through the Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) to sell her land. This led to Langrin being dubbed the “Iron Lady of Meghalaya”.
Even though Langrin was extremely impoverished, she refused offers for crores of rupees and continued to live in poverty in the village of Domiasiat, which lacks electricity and roads, till the end of her life. She had eventually encouraged the young people to keep fighting against the negative environmental effects of uranium mining by saying, “Money cannot buy me freedom”.
After placing flowers at her grave in Domiasiat, president of the KSU Ranikor Circle, Marconi Thongni said, “We should not overlook the contribution that Langrin made during her 95 years of life, during which she fought valiantly against the Indian government for the wellbeing and health of others.”
“Finding someone who prioritises the “betterment of others” over money is difficult, particularly when the offer is rich and involves millions of rupees. However, Langrin and (L) Hopingstone Lyngdoh, the former MLA of Nongstoin, remained steadfast in their opposition to uranium mining. Even though she passed away three years ago, her spirit will live on in us because of her refusal to use wealth for the sake of other people’s health and wellbeing,” Thongni added.
“As we reflect on Langrin’s life as a Jaitbynriew, we look with pride because of her dedication, patience, strong foundation, and stand for the truth for her whole life,” stated Shemphang Nonglang, vice president of the KSU South West Khasi Hills District.