The Meghalaya Legislative Assembly on August 26 unanimously opposed uranium exploration, mining and processing anywhere in the state. All 60 MLAs supported a resolution moved by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma. The resolution urged the Centre, the Department of Atomic Energy and Uranium Corporation of India Ltd (UCIL) not to allow uranium mining in Meghalaya.
It specifically opposed the proposed Kylleng-Pyndengsohiong-Mawthabah (KPM) project in West Khasi Hills. The government cited environmental risks, community opposition, water security and concerns over mining waste.
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Key Facts
- Location: Meghalaya, Northeast India
- Date: August 26, 2026
- Resolution moved by: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma
- Assembly strength: 60 MLAs
- Decision: Unanimous opposition to uranium mining
- Main project: KPM uranium mining project
- Key concern: Environmental and community impact
- Other issue: Public consultation exemption for certain atomic-mineral projects
Meghalaya Assembly Rejects Uranium Mining
The Meghalaya Assembly unanimously passed a resolution opposing uranium exploration, mining and processing across the state.
The resolution asked the Centre, the Department of Atomic Energy and UCIL not to permit uranium mining anywhere in Meghalaya. It also specifically mentioned the proposed KPM project in West Khasi Hills.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said Meghalaya has significant uranium deposits. However, communities have opposed previous attempts to explore and mine the mineral.
He said the resolution would clearly communicate the position of the state government, elected representatives and people on uranium mining.
Environmental Risks Raise Concerns
Sangma highlighted several environmental concerns linked to the proposed mining areas.
The state has identified uranium deposits at Domiasiat, Wahkyn and Lostoin across West Khasi Hills and South West Khasi Hills. The KPM project proposes open-cast mining along with an ore processing plant.
According to Sangma, the region receives heavy rainfall and has steep terrain. He also said the area faces landslide risks.
The proposed mining zone also serves as a catchment for several streams and rivers. These water sources support drinking water supplies, agriculture and local livelihoods.
Concerns Over Mining Waste
The chief minister also raised questions about the long-term management of mining waste.
He referred to materials such as overburden, mill tailings and process effluents that mining and processing operations could generate.
Sangma argued that the region’s geography and rainfall could make waste management more difficult and increase environmental risks.
Communities Oppose Uranium Mining
The resolution noted sustained opposition from traditional institutions, autonomous district councils, student organisations, civil society groups and elected representatives.
It also stated that affected communities had not given their “free, prior and informed” consent to uranium mining.
Sangma further referred to a 2019 Supreme Court judgment concerning land rights in Meghalaya. He said landowners have rights over surface and sub-soil resources, including minerals.
Government Raises Public Consultation Issue
The chief minister also raised concerns about an Office Memorandum issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change on September 8, 2025.
According to Sangma, the memorandum exempted mining projects involving atomic minerals from public consultation requirements under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006.
He argued that such changes could affect the participation of local communities in decisions concerning uranium mining.
Resolution Gets Support Across Party Lines
The resolution received unanimous support from the Assembly, cutting across political lines.
Leader of the Opposition Mukul Sangma of the Trinamool Congress supported the resolution. MLAs from the Voice of the People Party also backed the government’s position.
Sangma said concerns over uranium mining and its potential impact on communities should remain clear for future generations.
Questions and Answers
What did the Meghalaya Assembly decide?
All 60 MLAs opposed uranium exploration, mining and processing in the state.
Which uranium project did the resolution oppose?
The resolution specifically opposed the proposed KPM project in West Khasi Hills.
Why does Meghalaya oppose uranium mining?
The government cited environmental risks, water security, mining waste, community concerns and local opposition.
Where are uranium deposits located in Meghalaya?
The government has identified deposits at Domiasiat, Wahkyn and Lostoin in the Khasi Hills region.
Did the resolution receive support from the Opposition?
Yes. Leader of the Opposition Mukul Sangma and MLAs from other parties supported it.
Location Context
Meghalaya’s mountainous terrain, heavy rainfall and extensive network of streams make environmental and water-security issues particularly important. The Assembly’s unanimous decision highlights the state’s continued focus on protecting local communities and natural resources.