Meghalaya Human Rights Commission Investigates Fatal Explosion at Illegal Coal Mine

MHRC Takes Action Following Fatal Incident

Shillong, January 7: The Meghalaya Human Rights Commission (MHRC) has requested a comprehensive report from the state government regarding the deaths of two individuals in an explosion at an unauthorized coal mine located in the East Jaintia Hills district. This action follows media reports that prompted the Commission to take suo motu cognizance.

In a notice directed to the Chief Secretary on Tuesday, the Commission instructed the government to conduct a thorough investigation and submit a detailed report within one month.

The MHRC's involvement arises amid increasing scrutiny over the reported fatalities, which were initially denied by local police but later attracted the attention of the Justice (retd) BP Katakey committee, which is monitoring illegal coal mining activities in the state.

On December 23, an explosion, believed to have been triggered by dynamite, occurred inside an illegal coal mine in Thangsko village, resulting in the deaths of at least two individuals and injuries to several others.

One miner reportedly died on the day of the explosion, while another, identified as Ashok Tamang, passed away from his injuries at Shillong Civil Hospital on January 1.

Footage shared on social media and reports from local sources indicated fatalities and serious injuries, contradicting the initial claims made by officials.

Following the incident, the district police dismissed the reports as 'baseless', asserting that no explosion, injuries, or deaths had occurred at the site.

Vikash Kumar, Superintendent of Police for East Jaintia Hills, was quoted saying, 'That’s just a rumour and there is no such incident. We have verified from all local sources, inquiry has been conducted.'

On Monday, the Justice (retd) BP Katakey committee instructed the Meghalaya Police to provide a report within two days concerning the deaths associated with illegal coal mining in East Jaintia Hills.

Justice Katakey stated, 'I have sought a report about the deaths from Meghalaya police this morning. Based on the findings of the report, appropriate action would be taken.'

Justice Katakey has been monitoring the state's adherence to Supreme Court and High Court directives regarding illegal coal mining and has consistently highlighted the ongoing issue of illegal rat-hole mining in the district in various interim reports submitted to the Meghalaya High Court.

The committee has repeatedly cautioned that the secretive nature of these mining operations places workers in extreme danger, as illegal coal mines lack safety measures, regulatory oversight, and emergency response protocols.

Despite numerous incidents, illegal coal mining remains a significant issue in East Jaintia Hills district, raising serious concerns about enforcement failures and the risks posed to human life.