Meghalaya CM vows strict action over coal mine blast; Assam announces ex-gratia

Guwahati: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Friday said his administration will hold those responsible for the coal mine explosion in East Jaintia Hills accountable. The blast, which occurred on Thursday, claimed at least 18 lives.

Two Cabinet Ministers have been sent to the site to assess the situation on the ground. They are tasked with meeting local officials and reviewing rescue operations, relief measures, and law and order arrangements.

Sangma stated that police have been instructed to take strict action against those involved in the incident and stressed that illegal mining activities will not be tolerated in the state. He also announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 3 lakh for the families of each victim.

Following the incident, the Assam government confirmed that three workers from the state lost their lives in the blast. Officials from both states are coordinating closely to verify all victims and provide support to the families affected.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the deceased workers were from Katigorah in Barak Valley and that Assam authorities are in contact with Meghalaya officials to ensure relief reaches the affected families. The Assam chief secretary is coordinating directly with his Meghalaya counterpart to facilitate assistance.

The Assam government announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for the families of the three deceased workers. Sarma said the state administration would stand by the families during this difficult period.

In addition, the North Karimganj MLA visited the homes of two victims, Nikunj and Krishna Vaishnav, to meet their families, offer condolences, and brief them on the aid being provided by the chief minister’s office.