KSU alleges move to set up BSF battalion is for uranium mining

SHILLONG, JAN 17: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) today alleged the move to set up the battalion headquarters of the Border Security Force in Mawkyrwat and other villages was to facilitate uranium mining in South West Khasi Hills District.

“The Centre and the state government are trying to set up the BSF battalion headquarters with the intention to mine uranium by suppressing the voice of the people,” KSU-SWKH president Forwardman Nongrem said.

Addressing media persons here on Wednesday, he said the people of the different villages have expressed strong opposition against the attempt of the government to find land for the setting up of the BSF’s battalion headquarters.

The one-week ultimatum served earlier by the Union to the district deputy commissioner to call off the notices issued to dorbar shnongs and also to land owners for the purpose has already expired.

Failing to get any response from the district administration, Nongrem also announced the decision of the Union to stage a protest march to the office of the deputy commissioner on January 24.

“We will take out a march to the DC’s office as a mark of protest against the government’s move to forcefully acquire land on behalf of the BSF without any public consultation,” he said.

Asked, the Union president alleged that notices have been issued to the dorbar shnongs and land owners in Mawkyrwat area besides Rangblang, Phlangdiloin and Wahkaji areas.

According to him, these areas are located about 50 kilometers away from the International border with neigbouring Bangladesh and that the reason to set up a BSF battalion is not justified.

“When the government cannot even properly man the border areas, we fail to under the need for paramilitary forces in areas which are more secured and peaceful,” he stated.

He said that union will also soon convene a meeting with the headmen and land owners of the different villages on the matter to foil the move of the BSF and the government to acquire land in the district.                                                                                          

KSU-SWKH organizing secretary Marcony Thongni said that the Union will ensure that areas in South West Khasi Hills District are not turned into defense land like in other parts of the state.

“It is clear indication that  the government is preparing to mine uranium but we make our stand clear that we will not allow this happen at any cost,” he added.

By Our Reporter