SHILLONG, JUL 17: The Khasi Students’ Union on Friday commemorated the 191st death anniversary of U Tirot Sing Syiem with a renewed pledge to oppose uranium mining in Meghalaya.
KSU President Raymond Kharjana said the tribute must go beyond rituals.
“This is a day to ask ourselves if we are worthy of the sacrifices made by our martyrs,” he said.
While welcoming the state government’s proposal for a resolution against mining in Domiasiat and adjoining villages, Kharjana said that was not enough.
“A resolution alone will not solve it. The government must act,” he said.
He alleged that influential persons have recently been visiting Domiasiat to pressure residents and purchase land, and that there are also plans to upgrade roads to the mineral-rich area.
“The government should probe why land is being bought there. Uranium mining is a matter of life and death for us. The Union is ready to sacrifice for our people and we will not let anyone destroy our community,” Kharjana said.
Linking the issue to identity, he reiterated the demand for the Inner Line Permit, saying the indigenous population remains vulnerable without a law to regulate entry.
“Tirot Sing laid down his life to protect our identity. If our youth stand firm today, that will be the best gift to the next generation,” he added.
Former KSU general secretary Donald V Thabah also spoke at the event and claimed the Union has “concrete evidence” of money being used to buy land in Domiasiat for mining.
“The government’s decision to oppose uranium mining is welcome, but earlier it took a dangerous stand against the nation and community,” Thabah said.
He said a KSU team had visited the area and cautioned the government.
“If no action is taken, the KSU will take strong steps. It was due to KSU’s pressure that the government said no to uranium mining,” he said.
Thabah urged people to emulate Tirot Sing to safeguard the state.
“Each one of us must follow his path so that those with evil designs cannot take over our beloved state,” he said.
The KSU said it will continue awareness campaigns on the risks of uranium mining and oppose any move that threatens Khasi land and identity.
By Our Reporter
