Shillong, Mar 5,2025: Mawlai Legislator Brightstarwell Marbaniang raised a Short Duration Discussion regarding a news article published in a vernacular newspaper on 26th February 2025, titled “Let the people of Jaintia decide on the railway line, outsiders don’t interfere: Kyrmen Shylla”.

Brightstar stated that he takes exception to the statement particularly objecting to the comments on the railway line, outsiders, and interference. He suggested that the government should first implement the Inner Line Permit (ILP) before bringing railway connections to the state.

Nongkrem Legislator Ardent Basaiawmoit supported the Short Duration Discussion and shared his displeasure with the statement.

Mawkyrwat Legislator Renikton L Tongkhar opined that one must not take the statement made by Cabinet Minister & Khliehriat Legislator Kyrmen Shylla as a statement made by a minister or as a political leader of any party but that of an individual.

Echoing similar views Amlarem Legislator Lahkmen Rymbui stated that he wanted to hear the voice of the people of Jaintia Hills and let the people decide on the railway connectivity.

Leader of Opposition, Dr. Mukul Sangma maintained that there are times leaders are also misquoted so he suggested caution so that there can be no misinterpretation.

Mowkaiaw MLA Nujroki Sungoh and North Shillong MLA Adelbert Nongrum also participated in the discussions.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma stressed that the Government has been very clear that the people’s sentiments will be taken into consideration. He added that the Government will only move forward with these projects after detailed consultation with stakeholders and getting general consensus as to how to move forward. He informed the house of the suggestion made by the Leader of Opposition to call different political parties to discuss the matter.