SHILLONG, Nov 11 � Criticising a campaign carried out by Department of Atomic Energy and UCIL in Meghalaya to create awareness about Uranium mining, several local outfits on Wednesday said it is an attempt to �forcefully convince� the people about the project in the State, reports PTI.
BARC scientists and officials of UCIL and DAE yesterday gave a presentation to Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, his Cabinet colleagues and other senior State Government officials on the prospects of uranium mining and sought to allay the fears of health hazards.
A similar presentation was given to the opposing groups.
�It was an attempt to forcefully convince us. It is not a meeting but an aggressive campaign in favour of mining,� Emlang Lytan of Federation of Khasi Garo Jaintia People said.
Endorsing similar views, Dyno Dympep of Meghalaya People Human Rights Commission who staged a walk out from the meeting said, �They have not been able to substantiate the safety measures, protect human rights or related social responsibility aspect or even land ownership of the indigenous people.�
Civil Society for Women�s Organisation president Agnes Kharshiing said, �Nothing is transparent. We will continue to fight against the radiation hazards arising out of the project.�
Khasi Students� Union president Samuel Jyrwa said, �The presentation of the module is a repeat of the earlier attempts. There was nothing to address the concerns of the locals.�
Head of Public Awareness Division of DAE S K Malhotra later said, �It is a process and we shall continue with this activity to spread awareness and are willing to answer all the questions posed to us.� � PTI
