SHILLONG: Leader of the Opposition Dr. Mukul Sangma launched a blistering attack on the ruling administration, accusing them of presiding over a “well-scripted, predictable modus operandi” of illegal coal mining that has stained the integrity of the state.
Sangma’s address was fueled by the recent catastrophic mine tragedy in East Jaintia Hills. Attributing the loss of lives to a “dynamic blast,” Sangma argued that the tragedy proves, “beyond reasonable doubt,” that illegal extraction has reached a lethal scale.
“Mining on this scale cannot take place unless there is complicity between the authorities and the perpetrators,” Sangma declared. “The government is in ‘denial mode,’ allowing predators to continue unchecked while our infrastructure is destroyed by overloaded trucks in plain sight.”
The most explosive allegation involved the government’s handling of the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on coal mining. Sangma accused the state of a clever legal maneuver: “clubbing”.
Sangma claims the government is ensuring the litigation never ends.
“The goal is to deliberate delay in the administration of justice. Using the “sub-judice” rule to gag discussions in the House. Justice delayed is justice denied. I suggest the litigant withdraw the case so we can take it up right here in this August House!”
Sangma didn’t stop at the mines; he followed the money.
He reacted to the government’s reply to the Supreme Court that there were 32 lakh Metric tonnes of coal, but the reality Verification by the Justice (Retd.) Katakey Committee found barely a fraction of that in some areas.
Sangma alleged that figures were inflated to create a “paper trail” for illegal coal to be sold as “inventoried” stock.” “How can 2 lakh tonnes become 32 lakh Metric tonnes overnight? It is all money,” he charged.
Linking the environment of illegality to political survival, Sangma slammed the “systematic political poaching” that saw MLAs from the TMC and Congress merge with the NPP. He argued this consolidation of power was designed solely to protect illegal interests and ensure the “scripted” modus operandi remains uninterrupted.
Invoking section 21 of the MMDR Act, the former Chief Minister called for the prosecution of authorities who have failed to act.
“If we want to put an end to this illegalities, this government has to go. As long as you allow this government to remain, this illegalities will continue. mark my words,” he said.
