Meghalaya coal mining row: Conrad Sangma reacts to Mukul Sangma’s allegations

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma when asked about his take on the illegal coal mining issue, said that the government has been very clear in its stand. Conrad Sangma maintained

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma when asked about his take on the illegal coal mining issue, said that the government has been very clear in its stand. Conrad Sangma maintained that strict directives have been issued to all the district administrations and police authorities to keep a close tab and act accordingly on illegal mining and transportation of coal.

The Meghalaya Chief Minister assured a proper inquiry if there is any illegal mining still going on. Conrad Sangma urged everyone who is aware of such activities to report them to the government, which will definitely be looked into by the competent authorities. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma reiterated that no illegal mining will be permitted, and that those involved in such activities will face legal consequences.

Earlier, Senior Trinamool Congress leader and former Chief Minister Mukul Sangma today lashed out at the Conrad Sangma-led government in the state for allegedly turning a blind eye to the rampant illegal mining of coal in Garo Hills.

Paying a surprise visit to the Nongalbibra area following reports of illegal mining and transportation of coal, Sangma said that fresh coal extracted from nearby areas was found dumped all over, ready for transportation. The former CM said an S.I.T inquiry has to be launched to probe the serious irregularities.

Interacting with media persons, Sangma said that he had been informing the government of illegal mining activities for the last 2 years, but to no avail. Sangma added that illegal mining deprives the government of revenue worth crores of rupees and leads to the destruction of natural resources.

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