Anti-mining groups boycott uranium panel meet

Shillong, Mar 2 : A crucial meeting on uranium mining in Meghalaya, which was today boycotted by anti-mining groups in the state, decided to seek opinion from independent sources on the effects of the proposed project.

The Joint Committee on Uranium Mining holding its first sitting here decided to write to independent institutions dealing with nuclear physics seeking their opinion on the proposed mining.

Deputy Chief Minister (in-charge of mining) B M Lanong, who heads the committee, told reporters after the meeting that 'definite and objective presentation' would be sought from the independent sources on the overall effects and precautionary measures on the project.

Lanong said the government will look into the reservations of the anti-mining groups and resolve the stalemate. "The committee does not want to go ahead with its exercise without the presence of the organisations, particularly Khasi Students Union (KSU).