Meghalaya: KSU Vows 'Lifelong' Resistance to Uranium Mining

Shillong:  The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has reaffirmed its "uncompromising" opposition to uranium mining in Hynniewtrep territory in Meghalaya, declaring it would resist “even at the cost of our lives”.

The pledge came during a solemn gathering in Domiasiat village, 55 km from Mawkyrwat in South West Khasi Hills, where the union observed Anti-Uranium Day to mark the fifth death anniversary of Spility Lyngdoh Langrin, revered as the “Iron Lady” of Meghalaya for her lifelong fight against uranium extraction.

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KSU vice president Biangbor Paliar delivered a resolute message to the central government: “Despite the recent office memorandum exempting public consultation for uranium mining, our position is unequivocal—uranium will never be mined in Hynniewtrep land as long as KSU stands.” He announced that October 28 will henceforth be observed as Anti-Uranium Day across all Khasi-Jaintia regions.

Paliar accused the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government of duplicity, stating, “The state claims to oppose uranium mining but only in words. We demand actions, not rhetoric.” He challenged the government to prove its sincerity by passing a formal resolution in the Assembly against the practice.

The KSU leader also issued a stern warning to individuals allegedly attempting to mislead locals in the Domiasiat-Mawthabah area into supporting mining for personal gain. “These agents must cease immediately, or they will face the full force of the brave youth of Jaitbynriew,” he declared.

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Forwardman Nongrem, president of KSU South West Khasi Hills District, paid tribute to Spility Lyngdoh Langrin, hailing her as a symbol of courage. “From this remote village emerged a fearless woman who defied the Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) and the Government of India, rejecting crores to protect her land and people,” he said. Nongrem warned authorities that more leaders would rise in her footsteps, ready to sacrifice their lives to prevent uranium mining.

Phrijun Lyngdoh Langrin, son of the late activist, firmly dismissed recent rumours that the family had softened its stance. “Our commitment remains unshaken. The legacy our mother built has only grown stronger. Since the 1990s, we have faced immense pressure, but we stand resolute against uranium mining,” he said.