The Jaiñtia Students Union (JSU) has poured cold water on the government’s suggestion that East Jaiñtia Hills could see the introduction of railways given that the project in Ri-Bhoi and East Khasi Hills has stalled.
Reacting to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma’s statement today that the central and state governments have been discussing possibilities of shifting the project to East Jaiñtia Hills, the JSU made it clear that it will not welcome the railway unless the Inner Line Permit (ILP) is implemented to keep a check on immigration.
It also requested the CM to first pursue the creation of “proper” educational institutions, hospitals and good roads before railways.
“We understand that railway connectivity can have numerous benefits, including improved transportation, economic growth and enhanced connectivity with other regions, but in a small state like Meghalaya, which is mostly occupied by tribals, it is necessary for the government to first bring in the ILP system as its purpose is to regulate the entry of outsiders to protect the local culture, resources and population of the region,” the pressure group said in a release.
The JSU added, though, that it is not completely against rail and its current opposition does not mean that there is no need for railways in Jaiñtia Hills.
