By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Feb 8: The Justice (retd) B.P. Katakey Commission has warned that merely registering cases without decisive outcomes emboldens offenders in illegal coal mining, particularly in East Jaintia Hills District.
In its 35th interim report, the Commission recommended expediting investigations into Khliehriat PS case numbers 25(5)/2025, 64/2025, 70(10)/2025, 03/2026, and 11/2026 (all related to illegal coal mining). It stressed prosecuting those involved under relevant laws, cautioning that prolonged pending cases send a wrong signal to perpetrators of illegal mining and transportation.
East Jaintia Hills, with over 22,000 rat-hole mine openings, continues to see large-scale illegal activities despite bans by the National Green Tribunal and Supreme Court. The Commission urged proactive steps aligned with its prior recommendations in its 34th interim report submitted on November 25.
Key cases examined include a complaint filed by VP MLA Brightstarwell Marbaniang November 19, 2025, alleging ongoing illegal mining at Lumbangla village. This led to Khliehriat PS Case No. 64/2025 (under BNS and MMDR Act sections). A joint inspection on December 16, 2025, seized tools and sealed a box-cut mine, with police initiating surprise checks to curb illegal transport.
Allegations of nighttime coal-laden truck movements in South Garo Hills were reviewed via a December 23, 2025, SP report. It confirmed 40–50 trucks plying NH-217 occasionally for export from Coal Depot No. 10 at Jadigittim by auction winner George S. Marak. Documents were verified as valid, so no further action was deemed necessary.
The report addressed two fatal incidents in East Jaintia Hills. Ashok Tamang died on January 1, 2026, at Shillong Civil Hospital from burn injuries sustained on December 23, 2025, in Umleng, linked to an illegal mine blast (Khliehriat PS Case No. 03/2026).
Mosaid Ali died on January 14, 2026, from crush injuries at Thangsko village (Khliehriat PS Case No. 11/2026) which led to discovery of a 180-foot-deep suspected mine and arrest of Sahanaz Uddin.
It reiterated that without prompt, meaningful investigations and action, curbing illegal coal mining remains impossible.
