NGT ban violation cases pile up on slow trials

JOWAI: The slow progress in trials is leading to piling up of cases related to NGT mining ban violation in Jaintia Hills, the mineral-rich part of the State.
Illegal extraction and transportation of coal in the region continue unrestricted even after the ban on mining by the National Green Tribunal. Violators are arrested by Meghalaya Police from time to time along the national highway. Cases are also registered but trial is in slow progress.
“We have to register a theft case against those who transport goods without valid documents under Section 188 of the IPC as they have also violated Section 144 of the CrPC,” a police officer said.  Violators were also arrested and detained by Assam Police from Beltola when they came to sell coal without proper documents and valid transit challans.
On Saturday morning, five trucks were seized for illegal transportation of coal from Jaintia Hills. According to EJH SP S Thamar, action has been taken against the drivers, the helpers and the owners of four trucks.
They were arrested from Moopala (Sutnga Road). “The police are investigating the case and a case against them has been registered,” the SP said.