From Our Correspondent
TURA, March 13: Following the furore from various sections of the state over the intended termination of the services of Justice (retired) BP Katakey, a Garo Hills-based organsiation called Centre for Environment Protection and Rural Development (CEPARD) has objected to the decision.
“This decision, if executed, will be a major blow to the rule of law and the pursuit of environmental justice in the state. Justice Katakey, appointed by the High Court of Meghalaya has played an instrumental role in exposing the continued violations of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) ban on illegal coal mining. His removal at this stage raises serious concerns about the state government’s true intent regarding environmental governance and transparency,” the organisation said.
It stated that illegal coal mining in Meghalaya has long been a contentious issue, with repeated court directives being blatantly ignored by powerful vested interests.
“The reports submitted by Justice Katakey’s committee have provided undeniable proof that illegal coal mining and transportation continue unabated. Despite multiple assurances from the government, coal-related violations persist, leading to severe environmental degradation and loss of state revenue,” it stated.
Calling the attempt to terminate the committee’s work as not only premature but a clear attempt to suppress uncomfortable truths, the group felt compared to the extensive damage caused, the argument was weak.
“The justification that Rs 65 lakh has already been spent on the committee is a weak argument when compared to the extensive damage caused by illegal mining. The financial burden of pollution, river contamination, and land degradation far exceeds this expenditure. Instead of focusing on disbanding the committee, the government should be investing resources into implementing Justice Katakey’s recommendations and holding those responsible for environmental violations accountable,” said CEPARD.
“The larger issue at stake is not just illegal coal mining but the pattern of systemic neglect in enforcing environmental laws across Meghalaya. Illegal sand mining continues to devastate riverbeds, while unregulated stone quarrying has resulted in widespread deforestation, landslides, and air pollution, impacting both ecosystems and local communities,” it added.
Despite these ongoing environmental violations, enforcement agencies remain passive and those involved operate with impunity, they alleged.
“Justice Katakey’s efforts to bring such issues to light have made him a target of those who benefit from Meghalaya’s weak regulatory oversight.
His removal would set a dangerous precedent, signaling that individuals and institutions fighting for environmental accountability can be silenced through political influence” they added.
“The history of Meghalaya’s governance is marked by repeated instances where institutions meant to uphold accountability have been weakened with the undermining of the Meghalaya Lokayukta being a stark example.
“Officials investigating corruption and illegal activities have faced institutional roadblocks. Justice Katakey’s removal follows a similar pattern. We reject any plea seeking Justice Katakey’s removal,” added the organisation.