The Meghalaya assembly on Wednesday passed a unanimous resolution against uranium mining and establishment of any uranium ore-processing facility in the northeastern state. According to reports from Business Standard, the assembly adopted the resolution moved by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on the first day of the autumn session. The resolution specifically urged the Centre, the Department of Atomic Energy and Uranium Corporation of India Ltd (UCIL) not to permit, pursue or undertake any uranium mining operation in Meghalaya. As reported by Guwahati News, CM Sangma stated that the resolution 'reflected the long-standing concerns of the people, particularly communities living in uranium-bearing areas'.
The resolution emphasized the constitutional protection of tribal land rights in Meghalaya's Sixth Schedule areas, where land is held predominantly under community, clan and individual customary tenure. According to the resolution, 'the free, prior and informed consent of the affected communities has at no stage been obtained, and no mining lease for uranium has at any time been granted in the state'. The resolution cited the Supreme Court's 2019 judgement in 'State of Meghalaya v/s All Dimasa Students Union', which established that private and community landowners in Meghalaya possess both 'surface right as well as sub-soil right', including rights over minerals. As reported by Guwahati News, land transfers are regulated by the Meghalaya Transfer of Land (Regulation) Act, 1971.
Uranium deposits have been identified in multiple locations across Meghalaya, including Domiasiat, Wahkijn and Lostoin in the West Khasi Hills and South West Khasi Hills districts, as well as at Kylleng Pyndengsohiong Mawthabah. According to the resolution, Meghalaya has large deposits of uranium and has experienced opposition to uranium-related activities in the past. As reported by Business Standard, 'past activities by the Centre related to its exploration and mining had been opposed by people' across the state. The resolution represents the state's position on managing its natural resources and protecting local interests.
