Shillong, April 14: The VPP has decided not to be part of the all-party committee on railway unless the government first takes up anti-influx mechanism.
The VPP wrote a letter to Chief Secretary DP Wahlang in this regard.
Text of the letter below
Dated: 12th April, 2025
To
The Chief Secretary
Government of Meghalaya
Shillong-793001
Subject: Response to Notification No. POL.87/2012/Pt/I dated 2nd April 2025 regarding All Party Committee on Railway Connectivity in Meghalaya
Sir.
With reference to the above-mentioned notification, on behalf of the Voice of the People Party (VPP), I would like to express our appreciation to the Government’s initiative in constituting an All Party Committee to examine the issue of railway connectivity in Meghalaya. However, the VPP is of the opinion that before any discussion on the introduction of railway lines in Khasi and Jaintia Hills can take place, it is imperative to first address the genuine concerns of the people regarding unchecked influx into the state. In our view, the formation of a Committee to discuss and implement effective mechanisms to prevent or check influx such as the Inner Line Permit (ILP)-must take precedence over deliberations on railway connectivity.
We firmly believe that only when adequate and reliable protective mechanisms to regulate the influx or immigration of people into the state are in place can we safely consider introducing railway lines, without compromising the interests and identity of the indigenous population. Any premature discussion on railway connectivity, without first addressing these fundamental concerns, would only lead to a waste of valuable time and resources.
In light of the above, the Voice of the People Party regrets to inform that we shall not be participating in the said committee at this juncture.
Thank you.
Yours sincerely
Dr. RICKY A.J SYNGKON General Secretary Voice of the People party
