Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong has said that laws governing coal mining fall under the jurisdiction of the Government of India and cannot be altered simply by making demands or issuing written appeals.
Speaking on the issue of coal mining here on Thursday, Tynsong said there is a misconception among some sections that the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act) does not apply to Meghalaya because the state falls under the Sixth Schedule.
He clarified that while the state government has taken all possible measures within its powers, matters relating to the MMDR Act come under the purview of the Centre and must be addressed strictly in accordance with the provisions of the law.
The Deputy Chief Minister further stated that licenses for scientific coal mining are granted to private entities and not to the government. It is the responsibility of those entities to comply with all legal requirements and procedures.
He also informed that the state government will hold a detailed awareness and clarification programme on June 22 for coal mine owners’ associations and other stakeholders. Experts on the subject will be present to explain the legal framework and address concerns related to coal mining in the state.
