By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Feb 9: Despite blatantly persisting for over a decade, the NPP-led MDA 2.0 Government never acknowledged presence of illegal coal mining in the state, even going to the extent of demanding proof from anyone who pointed it out. It took a catastrophic blast and 30 deaths for the state government to finally accept the truth.
Hours after the blast at the illegal coal mine in Thangsko area, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma had promised to fix responsibility for the incident.
Now, four days later, the Meghalaya government has decided to constitute a Judicial Inquiry Commission under the Commission of Inquiry Act to probe the dynamite blast on February 5.
The Chief Minister announced the decision in a post on X.
Authorities have launched a large-scale crackdown on illegal mining activities in East Jaintia Hills. As part of investigation, two arrested accused coal mine owners—Forme Chyrmang (36) of Jalaphet Pordung village and Shamehi War (42) of Sutnga Pohwailong village—were taken to the blast site for the reconstruction of the crime scene.
Police said investigation is under way to ascertain the exact cause of the explosion, identify those involved, and determine lapses, if any, in enforcement and oversight.
Additionally, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong on Monday changed his stance from outright denial on coal-related illegalities to assuming responsibility to stop such illegal activities across the state.
While talking tough on illegal coal mining and transportation, Tynsong viewed the Opposition’s demands for the Chief Minister’s resignation on moral grounds as political in nature and indicated that while the Opposition is free to raise such issues, the government’s priority is to ensure that illegal mining and transportation activities are brought to an end.
The government directed district authorities to immediately clamp down on illegal coal mining activities across the state.
Tynsong said the process for the institution of the judicial inquiry will begin with the appointment of its chairman. He said the Commission will conduct a detailed investigation to ascertain the circumstances leading to the tragedy.
He further stated that with the High Court of Meghalaya taking suo motu cognisance of illegal coal mining, the government intensified its enforcement drive. District administrations have been instructed to go all out to ensure that illegal activities are immediately stopped, he said, adding that the government will file an affidavit before the High Court within ten days.
Rescue operations at the affected mine are continuing. Tynsong said although no bodies were recovered on Monday, the personnel have been directed to thoroughly examine the site and find out if anyone is still trapped or bodies are yet to be recovered.
Responding to reports that the government was aware of illegal mining activities, he maintained that action was taken whenever incidents occurred. He pointed out that the latest incident occurred in a remote area with difficult terrain, highlighting operational challenges faced by police personnel.
He said the government will further intensify its drive against illegal coal mining during the dry season to stop it altogether.
Addressing concerns over manpower shortages and the absence of central forces, he said the situation remains manageable. He said around 3,000 police vacancies will be filled soon to strengthen the state’s enforcement capacity.
Stating that the police are probing the incident of blast, he urged people to maintain patience, indicating that details cannot be disclosed at this stage as authorities work to establish the truth and identify all those involved in illegal mining activities.
