By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 27: The Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP) on Wednesday urged all political parties in Meghalaya to actively participate in the all-party committee constituted by the state government to deliberate on the railway issue.
The party said every stakeholder should make use of the opportunity to put forward their views and suggestions, instead of opting out of the committee.
The call from the HSPDP gains significance in light of the decision by several political parties to distance themselves from the committee, refusing to be part of the process from the outset.
HSPDP president KP Pangniang said his party was ready to initiate, negotiate, and discuss the matter from the platform of the committee.
He explained that while there may be disagreements or contradictions with party manifestos, it was still necessary to deliberate. According to him, dialogue and discussion go a long way in determining what is right and what is not.
Pangniang stated that the party was waiting for the committee to convene the meeting. He said once the committee calls the members, the HSPDP will put forward its views, particularly on measures to protect the indigenous population from the potential threat of influx.
He stressed that the matter should be properly addressed within the committee.
The HSPDP leader further pointed out that each political party had been asked to nominate representatives to the committee, and it was important that all parties give their inputs.
He said the purpose of the committee would be served only if all stakeholders participate in the process and share their stand on the issue of railways in Meghalaya.
