SOMALA opposed FDI in mining

Shillong, Oct 16: Taking exception to the cabinet decision to allow Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in mining sector in Meghalaya, the Social Organization of Meghalaya Against Land Alienation (SOMALA) has demanded its exclusion.

The SOMALA has demanded that the cabinet must review this in the interest of the tribal in  Meghalaya.

The cabinet recently approved FDI in mining sector. It immediately drew criticism from pressure groups and political parties. The contention of those who opposed FDI in mining said that the tribal might be alienated from their land soon as they might loss its possession.

Accusing the government of drifting from the mandate of the constitution by encouraging FDI, SOMALA said that the policy would create an opportunity for Foreign Government to invest and operate in the state.

Earlier the Nationalist People’s Party (NPP) and BJP had also criticized the cabinet decision to allow FDI in mining and said this will have a huge impact on small time miners and will lead to sellout of the natural resources of the State. – By Our Reporter