Congress President and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi on
Tuesday while addressing election rallies in the poll bound Meghalaya said that
the Centre and the state government are seized of the problems of immigration
and illegal mining which are core issues of the people in the state.
"The governments both at the Centre and the state are
engaged in talks with Bangladesh to see how to stem illegal immigration and I
am hopeful that we will reach a solution to the satisfaction of all
sides," said Sonia Gandhi at an election meeting at the Kiang Nangbah
College ground in the state.
"I am also aware that illegal mining is a threat to the
environment...I must say some measures have already been taken and we will
continue to do so in our efforts," said Sonia Gandhi. Noting that
Meghalaya was one of the fastest growing states, she said it excelled not only
in development, but also in administration.
"In many ways Meghalaya has grown far more rapidly than
most other states in the North East and perhaps in the country," Sonia
Gandhi said. The Congress president spoke on improvement of sports activities
and infrastructure in the state.
Sonia Gandhi added, "We also have not forgotten our
farmers. They have received financial support and we will continue to implement
our agricultural development schemes especially for the marginal farmers of the
state." Stating that the February 23 election was of great significance,
Sonia Gandhi said, it allowed the people to judge "how we, as a party,
helped the people realise many of their expectations". "We are always
mindful of the expectations and aspirations of the people and we do not intend
to rest on our laurels. Having been in power has not rendered us complacent,"
said the Congress President.
At another election meeting at Tura, Sonia Gandhi spoke on
the development undertaken by the Congress-led government in the state. Urging
the people of Garo Hills to repose faith in the Congress, Sonia Gandhi,
"We have ensured an era of peace, prosperity and stability. This is a
development of which everyone can be proud, this is yours in which everyone has
a share."
