SHILLONG, OCT 28: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) on Wednesday paid rich tribute to Mei-ieid Spility Lyngdoh Langrin on her 6th death anniversary and observed the day as “Anti-Uranium Day” in honour of her relentless fight against uranium mining in Hima Langrin.
Recalling her as a symbol of courage and selflessness, KSU said Spility Lyngdoh Langrin had rejected an offer of Rs 45 crore to protect the land and the community.
“Mei-ieid Spility Lyngdoh Langrin is a great example of love for Ri and Jaitbynriew. Her rejection of Rs 45 crore clearly shows her principle of putting the welfare of the community above personal gain. Her sacrifice and selflessness will remain an inspiration for generations to come,” KSU Assistant Information & Publicity Secretary Pynshngaiñ Lyngdoh Lyngkhoi said in a statement.
The Union said it was Spility Lyngdoh Langrin along with the KSU who spearheaded the opposition to the Government of India’s attempt to mine uranium in Hima Langrin.
“This struggle has been a symbol of a firm stand to protect the land and to oppose any activity that can endanger the health, life and future of the indigenous people,” the KSU said.
As a mark of honour, the Union said it observes her death anniversary as Anti-Uranium Day to remind people of the struggle against uranium extraction and to reaffirm its commitment to protect the rights of the Hynñiewtrep people.
Reiterating its firm opposition to uranium mining, the KSU said, “We firmly oppose uranium mining and all exploratory activities in Domiasiat, Mawthabah, Wahkaji and adjoining areas. Development should not endanger human health, nature, land and the lives of future generations.”
“We still need many people like Mei-ieid Spility Lyngdoh Langrin, who are courageous, determined and who stand firm to protect the land and the future generations of the Hynñiewtrep people without compromising just because they got money,” it added.
The Union said resolutions passed by the State Legislative Assembly and the District Council against uranium mining should not remain only on paper and must be implemented strictly.
The KSU said it will continue to stand firm to protect the land ownership rights of indigenous people as recognised under the Constitution and the Sixth Schedule and to ensure that uranium mining is not allowed in the region.
By Our Reporter
