Shillong: The National People’s Party (NPP) has urged all political parties in Meghalaya to actively engage in an all-party committee formed to deliberate on proposed railway initiatives in the state.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, NPP spokesperson Himalaya M Shangpliang emphasised the importance of collaborative dialogue in shaping infrastructure development while safeguarding local interests.
“The government is providing a platform for all political leaders to come together and share their perspectives on the role of railway connectivity in the state’s economic progress,” Shangpliang stated.
He appealed specifically to the Congress and Voice of the People Party (VPP) to contribute their views, underscoring that collective inputs could help the state strike a crucial balance between development and concerns around demographic influx.
“If parties like Congress and VPP truly prioritise the state’s growth, their participation and input will be invaluable in crafting policies that ensure both development and protection for our people,” he added.
Shangpliang highlighted the urgency of the discussion by pointing out that other northeastern states, such as Mizoram, have embraced rail connectivity after evaluating its benefits.
He warned that if Meghalaya continues to delay such infrastructure projects, it risks becoming the only state in the region without access to the railway network.
Addressing public concerns about potential influx of outsiders, Shangpliang clarified that the NPP is equally concerned about preserving the state’s demographic integrity.
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“We do not support unchecked influx either. What we need is a practical system—one that allows us to benefit from railway infrastructure while maintaining safeguards to protect the identity and interests of local communities,” he said.
The NPP’s call for an all-party dialogue comes amid ongoing debates around the social, economic, and cultural implications of introducing railway lines into the state.
The committee aims to create a consensus-driven approach to development that is both inclusive and mindful of local sensitivities.
