Meghalaya – A labourer from Assam lost his life while working at an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills, once again drawing attention to the persistence of unregulated mining in the state despite a national ban.
Police identified the deceased as Mosaid Ali, 48, a resident of Jamuna Moudanga in Assam’s Hojai district. He reportedly collapsed while working inside a mine at Umthe village on January 14. Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar said Ali was rushed to the Sutnga community health centre, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.
Following the incident, authorities sealed the mine and initiated a probe into the circumstances of the death. The matter has also been flagged by Justice (Retd) B.P. Katakey, who was appointed by the Meghalaya High Court to monitor illegal coal mining and transportation. He has sought a detailed report from the police.
The tragedy has reignited concerns over the continued operation of illegal coal mines in Meghalaya, despite the National Green Tribunal’s ban on rat-hole mining. Activist Agnes Kharshiing said the incident highlights how illicit mining and coal transportation remain rampant in the state, posing risks to workers and undermining law enforcement efforts.
