East Jaintia Hills Administration Launches Major Crackdown on Illegal Coal Mining
In a decisive move to combat illegal coal mining, the East Jaintia Hills district administration has issued stringent directives to law enforcement agencies. The administration has ordered police to identify, apprehend, and arrest all individuals involved in unlawful mining activities, including mine owners, operators, financiers, and other accomplices. Authorities have also been instructed to secure any incriminating materials linked to these illegal operations.
Arrests Made and Legal Action Initiated
Two mine owners have already been arrested in connection with illegal mining activities. Forme Chyrmang, 36, from Jalaphet Pordung, and Shamehi War, 42, from Sutnga Pohwailong, were taken into custody and produced before a local court. The court remanded both individuals in police custody on Friday, marking the beginning of legal proceedings against those involved in the illicit trade.
Prohibitory Orders Imposed Following Deadly Explosion
The district magistrate, Manish Kumar, has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). These orders, issued on Saturday, ban assemblies of more than five persons in and around suspected illegal mining sites at Thangsko village. This measure comes in response to a tragic explosion at an illegal coal mine in Mynsngat, Thangsko Village, under the Umpleng Police Outpost, which resulted in the deaths of at least 27 people to date.
High Court Directive Spurs Action
The district magistrate's order references a recent Meghalaya High Court judgment dated February 5, which took judicial notice of explosions in three illegal coal mines. The court directed authorities to initiate immediate and stringent action against those involved in unlawful mining activities. This judicial push has galvanized the administration into taking comprehensive measures to curb the menace.
Credible Complaints and Social Media Reports
Citing credible complaints from local residents and reports circulating on social media about the continued prevalence of illegal mining in the Thangsko area, the district magistrate expressed apprehension about possible obstructions during enforcement drives. These concerns include potential interference with the dismantling of makeshift camps, sealing of mining sites, and seizure of machinery used in illegal operations.
Strict Enforcement Measures Implemented
Under the prohibitory order, any assembly of more than five persons in and around illegal mining sites and operational areas at Thangsko has been prohibited with immediate effect. Exceptions are made only for officials engaged in lawful government duties. The district administration has directed magistrates and police to conduct strict inspections across Thangsko, seize vehicles, machinery, tools, and equipment used in illegal mining, and initiate legal proceedings under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act and other relevant laws.
Urgent and Ongoing Measures
The order has been issued ex parte due to the urgency of the situation and will remain in force until further notice. Authorities have warned that any violation of these orders will invite strict penal action under the relevant provisions of law. This crackdown represents a significant escalation in efforts to address the long-standing issue of illegal coal mining in the region, which has posed serious safety and environmental risks.
