SHILLONG, Feb 8: The Meghalaya High Court-appointed committee, headed by Justice (retired) BP Katakey has found evidence of illegal coal mining activities in South Garo Hills.
Speaking to The Shillong Times on Saturday, Justice Katakey said his latest observations have been included in an interim report submitted to the High Court of Meghalaya for further consideration.
Justice Katakey stated that inquiries into all seven complaints made in connection with the coal illegalities are in progress. Notices have been issued to all individuals concerned. However, one person failed to appear before the committee despite the hearing being scheduled in Guwahati for their convenience.
“For six of the complaints, I have sought reports from the state government which has assigned an official to conduct a detailed inquiry,” he informed.
He emphasized the need for transparency in the investigation process, stating that complainants must be actively involved and given a fair opportunity to present their grievances.
Regarding a separate video complaint alleging that 100-150 trucks were illegally transporting coal to Bangladesh, Justice Katakey revealed that he had immediately instructed the Superintendent of Police and the Deputy Commissioner to conduct an inquiry. “I did not find any truth in the allegation. It is highly unlikely that the Customs authorities would allow such a large number of trucks to transport illegal coal,” he remarked.
The committee is scheduled to visit Shillong after the ADC elections to further review the situation and examine additional reports related to illegal coal mining in the state.
The issue of illegal coal mining has remained a contentious topic in Meghalaya, with activists and local communities continuously raising concerns over environmental degradation and alleged violations of the mining ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
