ILP remains a prerequisite for railways in state

SHILLONG, Jan 7: The UDP on Sunday said that the proposal for introduction of railways is still dependent on one factor — implementation of Inner Line Permit (ILP) in Meghalaya, which the Centre has been sitting on for a prolonged period of time.
UDP vice president Process T Sawkmie said that if the Centre is serious about introduce railways in the eastern part of the state, then it should give the green light to ILP in the state.
Despite pressure, the central government has remained elusive and equivocal on the matter.
Sawkmie lamented that the Centre has not taken cognizance of the Assembly resolution adopted by Meghalaya for ILP implementation.
He observed that the state needs a strong legislation such as the ILP to deal with the influx before any discussion on introduction of railways takes place.
Party’s general secretary, Jemino Mawthoh, had earlier backed the idea of introduction of goods trains in the state. The UDP, however, clarified that Mawthoh’s statement was his personal opinion.
UDP working president, Titosstarwell Chyne, had said that the statement of Mawthoh in his individual capacity could not be taken as the party’s stand.
He also clarified that the party is yet to officially discuss the issue of introduction of railways in the Khasi-Jaintia region.
Chyne also said that the UDP has always maintained its stand insofar as the issue of influx is concerned. The party bats for a comprehensive mechanism, he added.
“We need to be very cautious before moving ahead with such a sensitive issue,” he said.