‘ILP Concerns Will Reach Delhi’: Centre Adopts Dialogue Over Push in Meghalaya

Correspondent

SHILLONG: In a politically significant shift, amidst the stiff resistance to railway expansion in Meghalaya, the Centre appears to be recalibrating its approach in Meghalaya—from assertive persuasion to inclusive dialogue.

During his visit to the state, Union Minister of State for Cooperation, Krishan Pal Gurjar asserted that the Government of India is committed to inclusive discussion on development projects, including the much-contested Tetelia-Byrnihat and Byrnihat-Shillong railway lines. “In a democracy, the government must take all stakeholders together. In organisational structure it is necessary to take everyone along, the states have its own right, people have their rights. In that case everyone needs to sit together and discuss and work for the welfare of the state.”

The 22-km Tetelia-Byrnihat railway line, estimated at Rs 496 crore, and the 108-km Byrnihat-Shillong extension have faced repeated delays due to strong opposition from civil society groups and pressure groups apprehending an unchecked influx of outsiders. In the wake of this, the Meghalaya government has notified the formation of an all-party committee to examine the railway connectivity issue—a clear sign of growing political caution.

The Minister’s remarks also coincided with heightened public sentiment demanding implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP), a long-pending mechanism aimed at controlling the entry of non-indigenous people. While he admitted not being fully updated on the current developments, Gurjar didn’t evade the issue. “I will take it up with the Centre,” he said, indicating that public concerns were being taken seriously at the highest level.

“Problems will arise, but through discussion, every challenge can be overcome,” he stated, striking a reassuring tone in a region where development efforts often run parallel with deep-seated fears of cultural and demographic erosion. Gurjar also addressed the land acquisition hurdles that have hampered infrastructure projects in the state, particularly highways. He acknowledged the gravity of the issue and emphasized the need for constructive engagement to push forward Meghalaya’s growth trajectory.

Pointing to areas of progress, the Minister hailed the success of the UDAAN scheme and the resulting boost in air connectivity. “The improvement in airways is helping the state leap forward,” he said, tying the development to the Prime Minister’s broader vision of connecting every state capital through rail and air infrastructure.

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