Shillong, Feb 13: The ruling NPP-led MDA 2.0 government has strongly denied allegations by the opposition VPP that it is colluding with illegal coal miners and traders. The government maintained that any illegal activities should be reported for corrective action.
“Why would the state work in collaboration with those involved in illegal activities? Do you think the state government promotes such things? No, nothing like that,” asserted Cabinet Minister and MDA spokesperson Marcuise N. Marak while addressing the media on Thursday.
The opposition VPP had claimed that illegal coal mining and transportation continued unabated in Meghalaya with the backing of influential figures in power. However, Marak refuted these accusations, stating, “The MDA government is very transparent, and you must have seen this. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has introduced several initiatives to improve governance.”
Emphasizing the administration’s commitment to law enforcement, he added, “If anybody witnesses such acts, and if it’s a fact, they should bring it to the government’s attention. We are here to address the issue and take action against it.”
Regarding Justice (Retd.) B.P. Katakey’s 27th interim report, which found evidence of illegal coal mining in South Garo Hills, Marak dismissed the claims. “There’s no such thing happening on the ground. If there is, there are systems in place to catch and prevent such activities,” he said.
When asked about the report’s investigative findings, he responded, “Well, I don’t know about that. But so far, those who were actively involved in mining earlier are now settled in Williamnagar and other towns. They are waiting for licenses for scientific mining and are not engaged in illegal activities.”
He further suggested that the allegations might stem from misinformation. “Well, I think this could be a misunderstanding or incorrect information. But in my opinion, there’s no such illegal activity.”
Despite the government’s firm denial, Justice Katakey’s report to the Meghalaya High Court highlighted that illegal coal mining remains rampant across the state’s six coal-producing districts. Drone videography and volumetric assessments conducted by a private firm engaged by the government provided fresh evidence of unauthorized mining, even after multiple seizures under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.
Opposition leaders and concerned stakeholders continue to question the effectiveness of government measures, calling for stricter enforcement and greater transparency in tackling illegal coal mining.
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