SHILLONG, Jan 29: The BJP has followed the UDP in demanding a probe by an “independent” agency, preferably the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), into the allegations of illegal coal mining in the state.
“We have pointed out from the beginning that there are a lot of illegalities in the coal issue. We want that an independent inquiry is conducted by the CBI or any such agency,” state BJP chief, Ernest Mawrie told reporters here.
He said the probe would help stop the illegal activities.
He said when he raised the issue at a meeting of the presidents of all parties last year, the CM had taken note of it and said the government would do the needful.
On the government’s statement that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) is monitoring coal mining in the state and has formed a special investigation team, Mawrie said, “I have not seen the NGT order but when I discussed with the CM, he had informed that the transportation of coal is allowed based on the NGT order through challan by way of auctioning”.
Since it is under the NGT, it can give direction for an independent inquiry to set matters right, he added.
Mawrie said not just the UDP, the BJP also demands action against anyone involved in the illegal activities.
On the allegation about the involvement of bureaucrats and politicians in the alleged coal racket, he said, “We cannot blame everyone. An independent inquiry will reveal everything.”