Illegal Rat-Hole Mining: HPWS files complaint against NCHAC chief and wife over alleged violations in Dima Hasao

Guwahati, Jan 12: The Halali Progressive Welfare Society (HPWS), formed by former cadres of the disbanded militant outfit Dima Halam Daoga (DHD), filed a formal complaint on Sunday against North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC) Chief Executive Member (CEM) Debolal Gorlosa and his wife, Kanika Hojai. The complaint accuses the duo of operating an illegal rat-hole coal mine in Umrangso, Dima Hasao district, in defiance of Supreme Court and National Green Tribunal (NGT) bans.

HPWS president Poren Nunisa and general secretary Pronit Warisa lodged the FIR at Umrangso Police Station, alleging gross negligence and blatant disregard for human lives and environmental regulations. The complaint highlights the entrapment of 15 labourers in the illegal mine at the 3 Kilo area, claiming it as evidence of the hazardous nature of the unlawful operations.

The FIR includes what HPWS describes as documentary evidence of Kanika Hojai’s direct involvement. A transit challan issued by the Assam Mineral Development Corporation (AMDC) reportedly identifies her as an authorized customer facilitating mining activities despite legal prohibitions.

“These illegal activities not only violate judicial directives but have resulted in significant environmental degradation and loss of life,” the FIR stated. It also called for urgent investigations and immediate legal action under multiple legal provisions, including Section 303 of the BNS Act, 2023, the Environment Protection Act, 1986, the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.

HPWS provided the names of nine labourers believed to be trapped in the mine and warned of escalating legal measures if police fail to act. “We will move the Gauhati High Court for justice if the police do not register our FIR,” an HPWS office bearer stated.

The illegal rat-hole mining tragedy has sparked widespread condemnation for violating environmental laws and flouting safety protocols. The incident underscores the pressing need for stricter enforcement of mining regulations and accountability for those responsible for such hazardous operations.

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