…they refuse to do so because the money they earn from illegal coal, illegal limestone, and other activities is enormous, and no one wants to regulate it”
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 24: The Opposition Congress has alleged that the delay in resuming coal mining in the state is deliberate, claiming that those in power are benefiting from illegal activities, and the resumption of mining would put an end to these gains.
“If they cannot start scientific mining, they could at least implement regulated mining. However, they refuse to do so because the money they earn from illegal coal, illegal limestone, and other activities is enormous, and no one wants to regulate it,” said Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) chief Vincent H Pala.
Pala criticised the BJP-led central government and the NPP-led state government for failing to restart coal mining. He said, “Coal mining is the backbone of the state’s economy and is vital for the people of West Khasi Hills, Jaintia Hills, and Garo Hills. When revenue is generated from coal, it circulates throughout the state, the Northeast, and even reaches Bangladesh.”
He added, “It’s disappointing to see neither the BJP nor the NPP showing any intent to resume mining. If they regulate mining or start scientific mining, their ‘ATM’ — which funds their elections and businesses — will stop.”
Expressing pessimism about the resumption of mining in the near future, Pala remarked, “Any hope for its revival is a distant dream.”
On scientific mining, he noted, “They might grant licenses to just three or four applicants out of the hundreds applying. Even then, by the time mining actually begins, it will take another four to five years.”
Coal mining in Meghalaya was banned by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2014. Although the state was later permitted to pursue scientific mining, progress has been negligible to date.