SHILLONG, Feb 1: The various inquiry commissions constituted by the state government to probe into the allegations of irregularities in the MeECL, rice scam in the Social Welfare department and the killing of former HNLC leader, Cheristerfield Thangkhiew, are expected to submit their reports soon, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said on Tuesday.
“We are hopeful that the committees will submit their reports very soon,” Sangma told reporters.
The CM reminded that additional time was sought and given to all the commissions in view of the fact that the terms of reference given to them were very broad.
“Hence at the request of the chairpersons of the commissions, extension has been given to them,” he said.
The UDP had recently urged the state government to ensure that the reports of various inquiry committees constituted are submitted soon.
Govt acted against coal illegalities
The chief minister also claimed the state government has taken action against instances of illegal mining of coal and its transportation. He said if people have any information about the illegal activities, they should share it with the government so that action could be initiated.
The statement was in the context of the demand made by the United Democratic Party and the BJP for an independent probe, preferably by the CBI, into allegations of illegal coal mining and transportation.
“We are very clear on this. We have given strict instructions to everybody that every movement (transportation of coal) that is taking place must be with legal paperwork,” Sangma said.
“It’s not that no action has been taken. Action has been taken but whatever movement and activities are happening, they are happening with proper legal format,” he added.
Deputy Chief Minister, Prestone Tynsong had earlier come down heavily on those making allegations of rampant illegal mining of coal and transportation and asked them to approach the National Green Tribunal (NGT) if they had any proof of the illegalities. He had stated that the government cannot be blamed blatantly when an Act is in place and the NGT is monitoring the activities.
