Shillong: The Meghalaya state government has constituted an all-party committee to explore railway connectivity in the state.

The committee comprises representatives from recognized and registered political parties. Relevant government departments will also participate in the deliberations.

The committee's primary objectives include identifying solutions for introducing and constructing railways in Meghalaya as well as conducting a thorough cost-benefit analysis of railway implementation.

It also aims to gather input from all stakeholders and submit recommendations to the state government.

However, the Khasi Students' Union (KSU) has responded sharply, reiterating their demand for the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) before discussing railway expansion.

The KSU urged Governor CH Vijayashankar to engage with the Centre on implementing ILP, adding that the state lacks a mechanism to control the influx of illegal immigrants.

They cited the recent detection of 11 Bangladeshi nationals recently in Umsning as an alarming situation, highlighting the state's long-standing struggle with illegal immigration.