SHILLONG, MAR 5: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday said the state government would soon call a meeting with the different political parties and stakeholders to discuss the proposed implementation of the railway projects and addressing the concern over influx and illegal immigrants into the state.
Sangma in his reply to a short duration discussion said, “As a government, keeping the sentiments of the people in mind, we have been very clear that we will only move forward with these projects after consultation with stakeholders and getting a consensus before moving forward.”
Sangma said, “We will be calling a number of meetings with the political parties and stakeholders (to discuss these issues). Let us put everything on the table, trash out the issue and see if there is a possibility to move forward in terms of the railway connectivity.”
“This is because sometimes when we negotiate, we end up negotiating based on position whereas negotiation should take place based on issue. If the issue is railways then it is a position but issue is influx therefore, it is only when we bring the people together instead of discussing the position, we discuss issues (and take a call),” he said.
The chief minister informed that the government of India has now moved the proposals for railway connectivity to every corner and almost all states’ capital. “We may be the only one which we will be left without railway connectivity and maybe if we miss this bus I don’t know when this opportunity will come again.”
“Therefore, it is important we realise the gravity of the situation. If we look at the genuine concerns related to influx and infiltration can we find a way forward to meet all the needs and address issues and yet not lose out this important game changer for our people especially the farmers and entrepreneurs,” he added.