Meghalaya Coal Mine Tragedy: High Court Orders Arrest of Mine Owners

Shillong: The Meghalaya High Court has taken a strong stance against illegal coal mining in the state, directing immediate arrests following a deadly explosion at a suspected illegal mining site in the East Jaintia Hills district that claimed at least 18 lives, officials said on Friday.

A division bench comprising Justice H.S. Thangkhiew and Justice W. Diengdoh took suo motu cognisance of media reports regarding the explosion in the Thangsku area. The court expressed deep concern over the continued operation of illegal coal mines despite an earlier fatal incident reported on January 14, highlighting ongoing violations of mining bans and judicial directives.

Pointing to repeated tragedies as evidence of serious administrative failure, the bench instructed the district administration and police to take swift action. The court directed the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of East Jaintia Hills to identify and arrest mine owners, operators, and all individuals involved in the alleged illegal mining operations.

The court also ordered authorities to seize machinery, documents, and any other materials linked to the mining activities.

Emphasising the need for immediate relief, the High Court directed the district administration to ensure prompt medical treatment and necessary assistance for all affected individuals, including the injured.

In a move to ensure accountability, the bench summoned the East Jaintia Hills Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police to personally appear before the court on February 9. The officials have been asked to submit a detailed report outlining the actions taken, including arrests, seizures, and measures implemented to prevent further illegal mining in the district.

The court further sought an explanation on how such banned activities continued despite earlier incidents and existing legal restrictions, warning that strict directives would follow if authorities failed to demonstrate effective action.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister stated that the Meghalaya government has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the incident and assured that those responsible would face strict legal consequences.

“The Government of Meghalaya has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident. Accountability will be fixed, and strict legal action will be taken against those found responsible,” the Chief Minister said.

He emphasised that the government would show no leniency in matters involving public safety and would ensure that all necessary legal and administrative measures are implemented based on the inquiry findings.

In one of the deadliest mining disasters in recent years, at least 18 labourers lost their lives after a massive explosion at the suspected illegal coal mine in the Thangsku area of East Jaintia Hills on Thursday.

With inputs from IANS