Guwahati: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma speaking on the railway topic said that it was important to consider public sentiment in the state's railway expansion plans.

Speaking at an event, Sangma warned that pushing ahead with the project without public approval would trigger law-and-order issues and hinder the state's broader development vision.

Sangma acknowledged the complexity of the issue, citing the state's community-based system and concerns over illegal immigration and identity protection.

He said that protective measures, such as the Inner Line Permit (ILP), to regulate the entry of outsiders were also needed.

The Chief Minister acknowledged that demographic change is a key factor in the issue, but highlighted existing safeguards like the Meghalaya Land Transfer Act, which restricts non-locals from purchasing land.