Committee convenor Daniel Langthasa condemned the persistence of illegal coal mining despite a Supreme Court ban on rat-hole mining
GUWAHATI: The Sixth Schedule Protection Committee (SSPC) of Dima Hasao has called for an immediate halt to illegal coal mining in the region following the recent fatal accident in Umrangshu. Navy divers recovered the body of a miner from a flooded rat-hole mine on Wednesday, January 8, while eight others remain trapped.
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In a memorandum submitted to the Deputy Commissioner on the same day, the committee demanded a thorough investigation into the illegal mining operations. They emphasised the increasing risks posed by such activities, citing threats to miners’ safety, economic stability, and governance.
The committee also expressed concern over the role of illegal mining in fostering black money.
Committee convenor Daniel Langthasa condemned the persistence of illegal coal mining despite a Supreme Court ban on rat-hole mining. He urged swift action to hold those responsible accountable and prevent further loss of life.
The incident has reignited focus on illegal mining in the state. Rescue efforts, involving the Navy, Army, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), are ongoing, while Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma acknowledged the jurisdictional complexities of the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council.
However, he also assured a detailed investigation by the state government.
