Shillong: Despite protests from the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), the Meghalaya State Investment Promotion & Facilitation (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was unanimously passed on March 13, marking the conclusion of the state assembly session.
The Bill was cleared after removing the contentious phrase: “creation of land-banks through direct purchase of land or other means.” This revision addressed concerns raised by various groups, with members from both the ruling and opposition parties welcoming the change.
Speaking in the Assembly, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma clarified that Meghalaya Investment Promotion Authority (MIPA) will not allow land bank creation but will instead focus on attracting investment and generating employment while maintaining a favorable economic ecosystem.
On March 11, the KSU staged a protest march towards the Meghalaya Assembly, opposing the amendment. KSU General Secretary Donald V. Thabah labeled the Bill as “against Meghalaya’s tribes.” However, the revised version sought to balance development with indigenous concerns, leading to its smooth passage in the House.
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