Uproar in Meghalaya Over Uranium Mining Exemption from Public Hearings

The Centre's new memorandum excluding uranium mining from public consultations has sparked opposition in Meghalaya, where local communities have resisted past mining attempts. This exemption, under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, has led to a regional outcry, invoking tribal rights protections.

The Centre's controversial Office Memorandum (OM) exempting uranium mining from mandatory public consultations has ignited a backlash in Meghalaya, a state abundant in uranium reserves.

Issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change on September 8, the memo excludes mining of atomic and strategic minerals from public hearings, drawing criticism from local authorities and activists.

In reaction, groups like the National People's Youth Front and the Khasi Students' Union have intensified their resistance to mining attempts, underscoring potential threats to indigenous rights and environmental integrity.

(With inputs from agencies.)