The Meghalaya High Court has issued a stern mandate for arrests in the wake of a fatal coal mine blast that killed 18 in East Jaintia Hills’ Thangskhu village. This action targets owners and operators flouting mining prohibitions amid rising safety concerns.
Suo motu, Justices H.S. Thangkhul and W. Diengdoh addressed reports of the explosion, decrying the persistence of illegal mining post a January 14 fatality. The bench underscored repeated breaches of bans and court edicts, signaling zero tolerance.
Police and administration received clear orders: identify and detain all perpetrators without delay. Seize tools of the trade, records, and suspicious items immediately. Ensure prompt medical and relief assistance to victims and families.
DC and SP must court-appear on February 9 with a comprehensive affidavit covering arrests, confiscations, anti-mining measures, and lapses allowing operations despite legal hurdles. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma reinforced this, ordering an exhaustive probe to nail the guilty and enforce penalties.
Sangma stressed uncompromising public safety, promising actions aligned with findings. As one of the deadliest recent incidents, it spotlights regulatory failures in Meghalaya’s coal belts. The high court’s proactive stance could mark a turning point, compelling systemic reforms to avert future horrors.