SHILLONG, June 19: The Mining and Geology Department has firmly clarified that there was no discussion on framing any new small-scale mining policy during the recent meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary with representatives of the Jaintia Coal Owners, Miners, Suppliers & Workers Association (JCOMSWA).
Joint Secretary M.B. Tongper stated that the association had demanded a reduction in the minimum area required for a coal mining lease from 100 hectares to just 3 acres. However, the government asked the association to provide proper justification, facts, and figures before the proposal can be examined by the state or central government.
Meanwhile, JCOMSWA president Marshall S.B. Biam’s indefinite hunger strike continues amid ongoing uncertainty over the resumption of coal mining activities in Meghalaya. The association is expected to finalise its next course of action by early next week following internal discussions.
JCOMSWA secretary Overcome Dkhar said the group would hold a meeting and brief the public on the outcome of its recent talks with the government before taking any major decision.
He added that the association is considering other forms of protest besides the hunger strike. The health condition of the association’s president has improved, with further discussions scheduled.
