Meghalaya Police Launches SIT Probe Into Fatal Coal Mine Explosion
In response to a devastating dynamite explosion at an illegal coal mine that claimed 31 lives, the Meghalaya Police has constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a thorough investigation. The tragic incident occurred on February 5 in the Mynsngat-Thangsko area of East Jaintia Hills district, prompting immediate action from state authorities.
Official Order Mandates Fair and Impartial Investigation
State Director General of Police Idashisha Nongrang issued a formal order on Friday establishing the SIT with immediate effect. The order explicitly states that the team has been created "in view of the recent coal mine accident that occurred at Thangsko, East Jaintia Hills District, Khliehriat, and in order to ensure a fair, impartial and expeditious investigation into the circumstances leading to the incident."
Nine-Member Team Led by Senior Police Official
The SIT comprises nine members and will be headed by Deputy Inspector General of Police (Eastern Range) Vivekanand Singh Rathore. The team has been assigned several critical tasks, including:
- Ascertaining the precise cause of the fatal blast
- Conducting a comprehensive investigation into the mining accident
- Identifying violations of court orders and National Green Tribunal directives concerning illegal mining activities
DGP Nongrang has directed that the probe be carried out in a time-bound manner to ensure justice for the victims and their families.
Multiple Investigations Underway
This police investigation follows Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma's earlier announcement regarding the formation of a judicial inquiry commission to examine what has become one of the deadliest coal mine accidents in Meghalaya's history. The state government faces mounting pressure to address systemic issues surrounding illegal mining operations.
High Court Issues Stern Directions
Meanwhile, on February 9, the Meghalaya High Court delivered significant directives to the state government. A division bench comprising Justice Hamarsan Singh Thangkhiew and Justice Wanlura Diengdoh ordered the government to submit a detailed report within ten days specifically addressing illegal coal mining activities and identifying those responsible for the explosion.
The court issued a stern warning, stating that accountability would be fixed and necessary orders would be passed for an independent or central agency inquiry if required. This judicial intervention underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the incident and the broader issue of illegal mining in the region.
Search and Rescue Operations Concluded
Search and rescue operations at the accident site were officially called off on February 9, marking the end of recovery efforts at the location where 31 miners lost their lives. The tragedy has highlighted ongoing concerns about safety regulations and enforcement in Meghalaya's mining sector, particularly regarding illegal operations that circumvent established protocols.
The formation of the SIT represents a significant step toward uncovering the circumstances that led to this catastrophic event and holding responsible parties accountable for their actions. As investigations proceed, authorities face the dual challenge of providing justice for victims while addressing systemic failures that allowed such dangerous illegal mining to persist.
