Guwahati, Jan 16: In the wake of the devastating Umrongso mine tragedy, which claimed the lives of four individuals and left five others missing, the Assam Cabinet has announced a series of decisive measures to provide relief to affected families, investigate the incident, and prevent similar disasters in the future.

Relief for Families
The state government has pledged financial assistance of ₹10 lakh each to the families of the four deceased individuals. The Next of Kin of the five missing persons will also receive ₹10 lakh as compensation, regardless of whether they are eventually found alive or deceased. This compassionate step seeks to alleviate the financial burden on grieving families.

Judicial Inquiry to Ensure Accountability
To uncover the circumstances that led to the tragedy and identify those responsible, the Cabinet has instituted a judicial commission headed by Justice Anima Hazarika, a former judge of the Gauhati High Court. The commission will examine the events surrounding the incident and recommend action against negligent officers, individuals, and institutions.

Tackling the Menace of Illegal Mining
The tragedy has shone a spotlight on the hazardous practice of rat-hole mining, which continues to pose a grave risk to lives and the environment. In response, the government will frame a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to enforce a blanket ban on rat-hole mining across the state.

Investigation by Special Task Force
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the incident, with its work to be guided by the findings of an FIR already registered in the case. The SIT will operate under the monitoring of Retired Justice Anima Hazarika, ensuring transparency and accountability in the investigation.

Closure of Existing Illegal Mines
In a bid to prevent future tragedies, the Mines and Minerals Department will work with central agencies to identify and shut down all existing rat-hole mines in the state. This decisive action aims to address the root cause of illegal mining and its associated risks.

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