Shillong, July 8: The Khasi Students’ Union has asked the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council to ensure uranium mining remains prohibited in the state, alleging renewed attempts to revive the sector.
The KSU cited several developments behind its concern, including sudden high-value land purchases in South West Khasi Hills, visits by people allegedly linked to the state government to persuade landowners to sell, frequent visits by Atomic Minerals Directorate officials with security cover, a fresh survey by the Geological Survey of India, and alleged intimidation of environmentalists opposing uranium mining.
In a letter to KHADC chief Winston Tony Lyngdoh, the KSU said immediate action was needed as it believes attempts to mine uranium in Meghalaya have resurfaced, particularly in South West Khasi Hills and West Khasi Hills districts.
“If this is allowed to happen, it will mean the death of our people,” the Union stated, warning that pollution from uranium mining would spread beyond mining sites and affect the entire state.
The union also flagged a November 8, 2025 Office Memorandum by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change that removes the requirement for a public hearing.
“This OM clearly shows that the Government of India can force its way on the grounds of ‘National Security’ to mine uranium and to sacrifice our people,” the KSU said.
To counter this, the KSU urged the Council to prohibit uranium mining through a House resolution and deny any No Objection Certificate.
It further sought an amendment to The Khasi Hills Autonomous District (Regulation & Administration of Land) Act, 2021, or a new law under the Sixth Schedule, to bar the transfer of uranium-bearing land for mining.
The union also asked the KHADC to instruct Dorbars in affected areas to prevent entry of AMD officials and others. “We strongly hope that as the District Council that stands for and protects our land, our ownership, and our people as a whole, you will give serious thought to this matter and fulfill this demand of the Union so that the Khasi people may survive,” the letter concluded.
