The opposition Voice of the People’s Party (VPP) today informed that it will not be part of the All Party Committee on Railway Connectivity in Meghalaya.
In a letter addressed to the state Chief Secretary, Donald Phillips Wahlang, party general secretary and Shillong MP, Ricky AJ Syngkon stated that the party firmly believe that only when adequate and reliable protective mechanisms to regulate the influx or immigration of people into the state are in place can it safely consider introducing railway lines, without compromising the interests and identity of the indigenous population.
“Any premature discussion on railway connectivity, without first addressing these fundamental concerns, would only lead to a waste of valuable time and resources,” Syngkon stated in his letter.
The VPP expressed its appreciation to the government’s initiative in constituting the All Party Committee to examine the issue of railway connectivity in Meghalaya.
However, the VPP is of the opinion that before any discussion on the introduction of railway lines in Khasi and Jaintia Hills can take place, it is imperative to first address the genuine concerns of the people regarding unchecked influx into the state.
“In our view, the formation of a Committee to discuss and implement effective mechanisms to prevent or check influx-such as the Inner Line Permit (ILP) must take precedence over deliberations on railway connectivity,” the VPP stated.
Earlier this month, the Meghalaya government notified the formation of an all party committee to examine railway connectivity.
The committee will comprise representatives from recognised and registered political parties to be chaired by the Chief Minister or a Minister nominated by him. All political parties have been urged to nominate two representatives each, while relevant government departments will be invited to participate in discussions.
The committee has been tasked with examining and proposing solutions for the introduction and construction of railways in Meghalaya, conducting a cost-benefit analysis, and seeking inputs from all relevant stakeholders before submitting its recommendations to the state government.
