SHILLONG: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Monday announced that the Judicial Inquiry Commission constituted to investigate the February 5 mine explosion at Mynsngat–Thangsko, which claimed more than 30 lives, has been given six months to submit its report.
Delivering a suo motu statement during the opening day of the Assembly’s Budget Session, the Chief Minister said the Commission will not only examine the circumstances surrounding the blast but will also investigate the deeper causes of illegal coal mining in the state and recommend corrective measures. The findings, he added, will be placed before the Assembly once the inquiry is completed.
Reiterating the government’s resolve to curb illegal mining and transportation of coal, Sangma said enforcement efforts are being intensified while parallel steps are being taken to promote regulated scientific mining. He informed that three scientific mining proposals have already received approval, while around 20 more are at an advanced stage of securing clearances from the Government of India.
The Judicial Inquiry Commission, constituted under the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952 and notified on February 14, will conduct a comprehensive fact-finding exercise, including identifying any lapses by individuals or authorities that may have contributed to the incident. The panel has also been tasked with examining labour conditions in coal mining areas and recommending administrative and institutional reforms to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Additionally, the Commission will suggest rehabilitation measures or financial support frameworks for people whose livelihoods depended on coal mining prior to the NGT ban, and will also examine whether any legal or constitutional provisions may be considered for relaxation in view of traditional mining practices in the state.
