Protecting Water and Land: Indigenous Women and Mining Impacts
摘要
Protests against mining especially uranium mining are a global phenomenon, arising from concerns about potential environmental and health hazards associated with this industry. Worldwide, anti-uranium mining movements are active in many countries, reflecting widespread concerns about the risks associated with this industry. In India, there have been significant protests against uranium mining in areas like Jadugora and Nalgonda. Concerns about the contamination of water sources and the health of local communities are major drivers of these protests. About from the key issues of environmental contamination and health risks, the issue of indigenous rights has also found significant attention. Many uranium deposits are located on or near indigenous lands, raising concerns about the impact of mining on traditional ways of life and cultural heritage. Indigenous communities often lead protests against uranium mining to protect their lands and rights. The uranium mining in the West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, India, has met with heavy objection whether in regard to indigenous land rights or environmental issues. The resistance to uranium mining in this region has been backed by women organisations too. Spility Lyngdoh Langrin with her sheer determination motivated the locals against the evils of uranium mining on the environment, making her the face of resistance to uranium mining in Meghalaya. Although, the issue of uranium mining in Meghalaya is still ongoing, in this paper, we will be discussing about the significant role played by the women in resisting uranium mining in this region with relation to environmental issues. This paper will also make an analysis of the other regions of the world where indigenous communities in general and women in particular have resisted the uranium mining.