SHILLONG: North Shillong MLA Adelbert Nongrum on Tuesday strongly condemned the Thangsko coal mine tragedy, stating that the incident has deeply shaken the state as it claimed the lives of innocent people forced by poverty to undertake dangerous work.
Speaking to reporters, Nongrum expressed serious concern over the repeated occurrence of such incidents, noting that this was not the first tragedy of its kind. He said the recurrence clearly indicates that illegal mining and illegal transportation of coal continue unabated in the state.
While welcoming the government’s decision to institute an inquiry, the MLA demanded the immediate suspension of the Superintendent of Police and Deputy Commissioner of East Jaintia Hills before the probe begins. He asserted that both officials are ultimately responsible for law and order in the district and cannot plead ignorance of illegal activities.
Referring to official statements that the site was located about 25 kilometres away, Nongrum questioned how authorities failed to detect the illegal operation. He pointed out that if K. B. Katakey could reach the location, district officials and police should have been able to do so as well. He also raised questions about the routes used for coal transportation, asking how thousands of trucks were operating without proper access roads.
“The government must move beyond statements and take concrete action. Action speaks louder than words. People will believe only when they see decisive steps,” Nongrum said.
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He added that claims denying the existence of illegal coal mining are untenable, as large-scale transportation of coal has reportedly been taking place for years.
The MLA urged the government to arrest and take strict action against all those involved, stating that only firm action would demonstrate the administration’s seriousness in addressing an issue that has deeply affected the state and its people.
Nongrum also questioned the silence of the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) and Elaka Sutnga authorities, who are custodians of the area, suggesting that their inaction raises serious concerns about possible complicity in the illegal activities.
