New Delhi, Feb 11 (NationPress) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has initiated suo motu cognisance based on a media report revealing that 18 workers lost their lives due to an explosion at an unlawful coal mine in the Thangskai region of East Jaintia Hills district in Meghalaya.

Reports indicate that the tragic event transpired on February 5, with numerous other workers believed to be trapped at unknown depths within the mine.

The NHRC noted that the details of the news report, if accurate, highlight severe implications regarding the human rights violations of the victims. Consequently, it has dispatched notices to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police of Meghalaya, requesting a comprehensive report within a fortnight.

This report is expected to cover the status of the ongoing rescue efforts, compensation for the affected families, progress in the police investigation, and measures implemented or proposed by authorities to prevent future occurrences of such incidents.

In the meantime, the Meghalaya High Court has taken a serious stance against the persistent operation of illegal coal mines in the state, mandating immediate arrests related to the fatal explosion.

A division bench comprising Justices H.S. Thangkhiew and W. Diengdoh has taken suo motu cognisance of media reports concerning the blast, expressing deep concern about the ongoing illegal mining activities despite a previous fatal incident reported on January 14 this year.

Highlighting that recurring tragedies indicate severe administrative failings, the Meghalaya High Court has instructed the district administration and police to act promptly.

The court has directed the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of East Jaintia Hills to identify and apprehend mine owners, operators, and all individuals involved in the alleged illegal mining activities.

Additionally, authorities have been instructed to confiscate all equipment, documents, and other incriminating materials associated with the mining operations.

Emphasizing the urgency of relief efforts, the Meghalaya High Court has ordered the district administration to guarantee that all affected individuals, including the injured, receive immediate medical care and necessary support.

The court also demanded an explanation as to how such prohibited activities have been allowed to persist despite prior incidents and existing legal restrictions, warning that stringent actions would follow if authorities fail to demonstrate effective measures.

Earlier, the Chief Minister announced that the Meghalaya government has mandated a thorough investigation into the incident, affirming that accountability will be enforced.

"The Government of Meghalaya has initiated a comprehensive inquiry into the incident. Accountability will be established, and those found responsible will face strict legal repercussions," stated Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.