SHILLONG, July 15: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has vowed to publicly name several former MLAs allegedly involved in land purchases in the uranium-rich Domiasiat area, accusing them of colluding with “vested interests” to push the controversial uranium mining project despite fierce local opposition.
KSU general secretary Reuben A. Najiar said the union had received information about the alleged transactions nearly two months ago and was now collecting official records to expose those involved. He claimed some land deals were executed around six months back.
He confirmed the KSU already knows the identities of the former MLAs but is withholding the names until it obtains documentary proof from official records and traditional heads.
“There are certain people who have been bought over and are working with the AMD to facilitate its plans. We have already indicated that there are several former MLAs who have purchased land in these areas. We are now collecting official records and, once we have all the documents, we will place them before the public,” Najiar said, adding that the union will expose each and every one involved in purchasing land and facilitating the AMD’s intention to mine uranium in Domiasiat and adjoining areas.
Najiar revealed that after the KSU went public with the allegations, some individuals approached the union for a meeting — but were firmly rebuffed.
“But we made it clear that we are not interested in meeting people who betray their own people to serve their personal interests,” he said.
He alleged that AMD officials have stepped up visits to Domiasiat and adjoining villages in recent months, often escorted by Central Armed Police Forces personnel rather than state police — a move he described as showing “little respect for the sentiments of the local people or even the state government.”
“What is alarming is that they were escorted not by Meghalaya Police but by personnel of Central Armed Police Forces,” Najiar said, adding that KSU leaders have also received anonymous threat letters in the past.
The KSU had already raised the issue with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, who reportedly assured them he would seek an explanation from the AMD. Najiar said the union had urged the CM not to allow AMD officials into villages where uranium deposits are located.
The KSU leader reiterated that the union would continue to monitor the situation and expose any attempts to facilitate uranium mining in the state.
Centre has not approached state on uranium mining: Dhar
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, however, said the central government had not approached Meghalaya in recent times to restart uranium mining. He added that the Chief Minister had already made it clear that the state government was not in favour of uranium mining.
