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Experts to look into Meghalaya cave row |
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Experts from the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), Nagpur, have arrived Shillong to investigate the controversy over the destruction of India’s longest cave, Krem Kotsati in Lumshnong, by cement factories.
In answer to a starred question by ruling coalition MLA P.T. Sawkmie, Meghalaya Chief Minister D.D. Lapang told the Assembly that representatives of the IBM were in Shillong for an inquiry.
The Chief Minister assured that the inquiry would provide ‘the most authentic report.’
However, even as Lapang said the IBM would start the inquiry soon, he said his government would prefer the state’s development to saving the caves in Meghalaya. Lapang’s volte face on the caves has come as a surprise to many and invited sharp criticism from the Opposition. A couple of months back, Lapang had gone on record saying he would ensure that development was not at the cost of the environment.
Ruling MDA members like Pynshai Manik Syiem said if the caves in Lumshnong were of national importance, then under Article 49 of the Constitution it would be obligatory on the part of the state to protect every such monument.
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