SHILLONG, June 5: UDP president Metbah Lyngdoh insisted his party has never taken the issue of illegal coal mining and transportation lightly.
Claiming that the UDP has been vocal against illegal activities, he said it sometimes becomes difficult for the government to control the illegalities. He underlined Home Minister Lakhmen Rymbui’s warning of stern action against those found involved in illegal coal mining.
The UDP chief, however, played it safe when asked about the demand for an independent probe into the illegal coal mining in the state and asserted it is up to the government to take a call.
“This is happening for 15-20 years but one should not allow and encourage any illegality and any government has to take action,” he told reporters on Saturday.
Lyngdoh denied that the UDP has taken a soft stand on the issue and felt that it was not proper for certain people to take photos and videos of loaded trucks and claim they carry coal. “Many trucks carrying essential commodities ply through Meghalaya. I am not saying every truck carries essentials but it would be unwise to comment unless we have proof about what they carry,” he said.
Referring to the May 30 mishap in East Jaintia Hills district, he said it was a clear case of illegal coal mining because of which FIRs have been filed.
“I am sure that the government and the Home Minister have taken strong steps in this regard,” he added.
