Shillong, Feb 9: The Meghalaya government has decided to constitute a Judicial Inquiry Commission under the Commissions of Inquiry Act to probe the recent tragic illegal coal mining incident in the Mynsngat–Thangsko area of East Jaintia Hills district.
27 persons had died in the illegalcoal mine incident till now. Meanwhile, search and rescue operations at the site of the February 5 mining blast remain underway, even as the matter has come under the scrutiny of the Meghalaya High Court.
Addressing reporters, East Jaintia Hills Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar said the High Court has taken cognizance of the incident and summoned the Deputy Commissioner (DC) and Superintendent of Police (SP) of the district for personal appearance.
“In connection with the illegal coal mining blast that occurred on February 5, the Hon’ble High Court has taken cognizance and called the DC and SP of East Jaintia Hills for personal appearance. Since the matter is sub judice, we cannot comment much at this stage,” Kumar said.
He, however, assured that the investigation is progressing within the legal framework.
“The investigation is ongoing. We have made arrests, and the probe is moving in the right direction. We are confident that it will be brought to its logical conclusion,” he stated.
Regarding further court proceedings, Kumar said clarity on the next date of appearance would be available once official orders are issued. “We expect the order by evening. Only after that will we be able to confirm the next date of appearance,” he added.
Dismissing speculation that rescue efforts had slowed, the SP confirmed that operations are continuing despite challenging conditions.
“The search and rescue operation is still ongoing. It was carried out yesterday as well, though no body could be recovered. The operation continues today,” he said.
He added that the duration of the rescue efforts would depend on inputs from agencies involved, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and other specialised rescue teams, taking into account the difficult terrain and ground conditions.
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