Thousands of cases filed as Meghalaya shifts from rat-hole to scientific mining: CM

Guwahati: The Meghalaya government on Tuesday reiterated that it has taken action on all cases of illegal mining brought to its attention.

Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma told reporters after a Cabinet meeting that enforcement efforts have been ongoing while the state shifts from traditional rat-hole mining to scientific mining.

He explained that rat-hole and tunnel mining have been practiced in Meghalaya for nearly 200 years, supporting thousands of families.

Sangma noted that when these long-used methods were suddenly classified as illegal in 2014, it disrupted miners and businesses connected to the sector.

According to Sangma, the government, police, legal agencies, and judiciary have been working to enforce the new rules, although the process has been challenging due to the state’s long history of mining.

He maintained that the administration has acted whenever credible information about illegal mining was received.

“Thousands of cases have been registered, many charge sheets filed, fines imposed, and several mines closed,” Sangma said. “The government will continue to take action whenever new information comes in.”

He added that while legal and administrative steps are necessary, the livelihood and social impact of miners must also be considered.

“Expecting people to immediately give up a livelihood that has existed for centuries is unrealistic. Sustainable and alternative options must be created. Scientific mining is the long-term alternative, but the transition requires time, investment, and clearances from the Coal Ministry, CMPDI, and the state government.”

Sangma acknowledged that some incidents may occur during this transition period, but assured that the government will handle them according to the law.

He emphasized that the larger goal is to ensure safer mining practices for both miners and the environment.

His remarks followed the Meghalaya BJP's call for an Enforcement Directorate investigation into what it described as widespread illegal coal trade in the state.

BJP state vice-president and Tura MDC Bernard Marak, who heads the party’s committee on illegal coal mining and transportation, said the committee had submitted its first inquiry report to the Centre and was preparing a more detailed second report.

Marak alleged that police personnel receive payments in connection with illegal coal trade and claimed the committee’s inquiry in Garo Hills uncovered several irregularities.