Shillong, Feb 6 (NationPress) In a decisive move against the persistent operation of illegal coal mines in Meghalaya, the High Court has mandated the immediate apprehension of individuals linked to a tragic explosion at an alleged unlawful mining site in the East Jaintia Hills district, which resulted in the loss of at least 18 lives, according to officials on Friday.

A division bench featuring Justice H.S. Thangkhiew and Justice W. Diengdoh took suo motu cognizance of media accounts concerning the blast that transpired in the Thangsku area.

The court articulated grave concern over the ongoing illegal coal mining activities within the district, despite a previous fatal incident reported on January 14 this year, highlighting continued breaches of mining prohibitions and court directives.

Noting that repeated tragedies indicate serious administrative shortcomings, the bench instructed the district administration and police to act promptly.

The court directed the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of East Jaintia Hills to locate and detain the mine owners, operators, and all parties involved in the alleged illegal mining activities.

Moreover, it ordered authorities to confiscate all tools, documents, and other evidence related to the mining operations.

Emphasizing the urgent need for relief efforts, the High Court further mandated the district administration to ensure that all impacted individuals, including the injured, receive immediate medical care and necessary assistance whenever feasible.

In a strong statement on accountability, the bench summoned the East Jaintia Hills Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police to appear before the court in person on February 9.

The officials have been instructed to provide a detailed report outlining the measures taken thus far, including arrests made, seizures conducted, and strategies implemented to halt the continuation of illegal coal mining in the district.

The court also requested an explanation from the officials regarding how such illicit activities were permitted to persist despite earlier incidents and existing legal constraints.

It cautioned that stringent directives would ensue if the authorities failed to show effective and decisive action.

The Chief Minister remarked that the Meghalaya government has initiated a thorough investigation into the incident, affirming that accountability would be upheld.

“The Government of Meghalaya has mandated a comprehensive inquiry into the incident. Accountability will be imposed, and those responsible will face strict legal repercussions,” he stated.

Reiterating that there would be no leniency concerning public safety, the Chief Minister emphasized that the state would not compromise on protecting human lives.

He assured that the administration would undertake all necessary legal and administrative actions based on the inquiry's findings. In one of the most catastrophic mining disasters in recent years, the remains of at least 18 workers have been retrieved following a significant explosion at a suspected illegal coal mine in the Thangsku area of Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district on Thursday.