Pressure builds on Meghalaya Govt for inquiry into illegal mining of coal

After the fresh complaints of illegal rat hole mining, especially in Shallang area of West Khasi Hills, Meghalaya there is a growing call from different quarters for an independent inquiry into illegal mining activities.

Even a constituent of the MDA, the HSPDP has called for the need for some sort of fact finding mission.

Not only this, social activists campaigning against illegal mining have once again slammed the authorities over alleged illegal mining activities.

Social activist and anti-mining crusader Agnes Kharshiing once again lambasted the government over alleged rampant illegal coal mining.,

The focus shifted once again on the mining issue after two labourers from Assam died in an alleged coal mine tragedy in Shallang area of West Khasi Hills district. As per reports, the incident occurred on the intervening night of February 16 and 17th. As per inputs duo died of asphyxiation or lack of oxygen inside the coal mine.

Now, the alleged coal mine tragedy comes at a time when there are reports of fresh rat hole mining in Shallang area.

In fact a complaint was filed with Shallang police as recently as February 14th, accusing certain individuals of indulging in rat hole mining in the area. The complainant on that occasion also alleged to have received threats from the illegal coal miners for protesting the activity.