KSU calls bandh against mining, power projects

The Khasi Students Union has decided to launch a three-day agitation to pressurise the Congress-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance Government not to issue a no-objection certificate to the Uranium Corporation of India Limited to mine uranium and also against the Government8217;s 8220;hasty decision in handing over of power projects8221; to five private companies.

KSU would start its agitation on January 7 by marching towards the state secretariat, followed by a road blockade on January 8 and a bandh in East, West Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi districts on January 9. KSU president Samuel Jyrwa told reporters on Thursday that the union 8220;has waited long enough8221; for the Government to change its mind regarding the power project deals.

Jyrwa questioned the state Government for 8220;not following the International Company Bidding norms8221; when the Kynshi and Umngot river project were handed over to private companies and added that 8220;the Government has violated its own policies8221;.

It has also decided to convene an all-party meeting over the uranium issue. Besides political parties, the students8217; body will also hold meeting with like minded NGOs.