While the opposition Voice of the People Party (VPP) and Congress Party have made it clear that they will not be part of the all-party committee on railways, the United Democratic Party (UDP), a member of the governing coalition, has still yet to decide on its stance.
Senior UDP leader and Sohra MDC Titosstarwell Chyne reiterated that the party strongly opposes the railway line, citing the absence of a proper mechanism to control or check the influx of people into the state.
In addition to Chyne, cabinet minister and Khliehriat MLA Kyrmen Shylla also expressed a similar opinion, stating that the party will decide collectively whether or not to be part of the all-party committee.
“Our stand till date is that we oppose railways, but when it comes to participating in any meeting, I think the party might consider it. However, we will be sitting for a meeting next week and, as a party, we will take a collective decision,” said Chyne.
Steering clear of controversy following a major backlash when he was earlier quoted as saying that “outsiders should not interfere,” on whether Jaintia Hills gets a railway, Shylla said today, “As the legislator from Khliehriat, I will leave it to the public to decide.”
“I feel that if the public wants it, then it should happen. If they are against it, then it should not. Everything we do is for the public, we are their servants. It is our duty to meet their needs and we shouldn’t go against their will,” said Shylla.
When asked who would benefit if railways are introduced in East Jaintia Hills, especially given the large number of traders in Lad Rymbai and Khliehriat, Shylla said that everyone who uses the railway will benefit and, for those who do not, there will be no difference.
“For those who use it, they will see the benefits. It’s like throwing a diamond in front of them. But for those who don’t use it, it won’t matter or make any difference,” Shylla added.
When asked why at least a goods train should not be considered, Shylla continued to take a balanced position, saying, “People know very well what a goods train or a passenger train is. I don’t know where we went wrong or why people are for or against it. But I believe that one day we will have a common platform. Now that the government has initiated this committee, at least give the public a chance to decide. I am no one to decide- let the public decide what the benefits and outcomes are. If the public says no, it should be stopped immediately. If they say yes, it should proceed.”
He also cited how public hearings are held whenever new companies are set up, suggesting that a similar public hearing should be held for this issue.
