Meghalaya Deputy CM denies allegations of forced limestone mining project
By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong on Thursday denied accusations that the state administration was trying to forcibly advance the proposed Shree Cement limestone mining project at Lum Syrman in East Jaintia Hills district.
Addressing the media, Tynsong said the decision to hold a public hearing on Friday itself showed that the government was following a consultative process rather than acting unilaterally.
He said the hearing had been arranged to provide residents and affected groups an opportunity to share their opinions and concerns regarding the mining proposal.
Objecting to the consultation exercise itself, he added, defeats the purpose of environmental procedures designed to gather public feedback.
The deputy chief minister remarked that there would have been no need for a hearing if the government intended to clear the project without involving the public.
He also maintained that the administration was not concealing anything related to the matter and remained ready to hold discussions whenever doubts or disputes surfaced.
Referring to the legal process, Tynsong said concerns over the project should be presented through the authorised system meant for public objections.
He noted that the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board is required under law to organise such hearings before projects of this category receive further clearance.
Calling upon organisations opposing the mining plan to attend the hearing, he said the forum would allow all sides to formally submit their objections and suggestions.
He further stated that both environmental concerns and economic aspects linked to the project could be discussed during the proceedings.
The deputy chief minister said holding protests outside government offices served little purpose when the officially mandated hearing process already existed for people to raise objections.
He maintained that the administration was following an open process and urged protesting groups not to draw incorrect conclusions about the legal steps being carried out in connection with the project.