The National People’s Party (NPP) has reached out publicly to the opposition Voice of the People Party (VPP) and Congress Party to urge them to reverse their decision not to participate in the all-party committee on railways.
The two opposition parties had separately decided to skip the committee, which was constituted by the state government, led by the NPP, to solicit views from all stakeholders regarding the divisive issue of railways in Meghalaya.
NPP spokesperson Himalaya M Shangpliang today emphasised the importance of involving key political voices in the discussion. The formation of the committee aims to facilitate inclusive dialogue and ensure that all stakeholders are heard before any decisions are made regarding the introduction of railway lines into the state.
“Excluding these voices could pose challenges when formulating recommendations for the state government,” he noted.
Shangpliang stressed that railway connectivity is a sensitive issue, requiring thorough examination of the pros and cons before any policy decisions are taken. He urged all parties to come together, promoting inclusive dialogue and collaboration.
The VPP argued that it would be pointless to form such a committee when the general public is opposed to railways in the absence of the Inner Line Permit (ILP). The Congress, meanwhile, said that the committee was an attempt by the government to pass the buck on the contentious issue to other parties.
