UDP on two tracks over uranium mining

SHILLONG, Sept 5: The United Democratic Party (UDP) is on a dual track over the Cabinet decision to allow the Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) to carry on the ‘pre development’ project in the uranium-rich belt in West Khasi Hills district. In spite of the fact that two of its legislators and Cabinet ministers were part of the Government’s decision to lease out 422 hectares of land to the UCIL, president of the UDP and former Chief Minister Dr Donkupar Roy said, “Our representatives in the Cabinet did not give a note of dissent because the issue was not thoroughly deliberated”. Roy gave an impression that the Congress members bulldozed their views on the controversial issue before taking the final decision”.

“As a party, we have not given any decision on the proposed uranium mining issue or the pre developmental programmes of the UCIL”, said Roy, adding, “We want a clear picture before we take a stand on whether to support or oppose the proposed uranium mining”. He said that the party will take a decision after the UCIL provides a white paper on issues of employment, environment, development, health and royalty to the government.

Even the two UDP legislators who were part of the Cabinet decision provided their own points during the parliamentary party meeting held till late on Friday night. The parliamentary party of the UDP will meet again on September 25 to take decision over the issue. THE SENTINEL