A tragic explosion in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya has claimed the lives of at least 18 laborers. The incident took place on Thursday morning, February 5, in the East Jaintia Hills district. Rescue teams rushed to the Thangskai area, located about 30 kilometers from the district headquarters, and recovered 18 bodies. One injured person was sent to a hospital in Shillong, but officials fear that more workers might still be trapped inside the mine as the exact number of people working at the time is not clear.
ℹ: Public Catches Robber in Gopalganj After 2.5 Lakh Snatching, Pistol Found Near SBI Branch।
What compensation has the government announced?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the loss of lives in this accident. He announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. Those who were injured in the blast will receive Rs 50,000 as assistance.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma also announced financial aid for the victims. The state government stated that it will provide Rs 3 lakh to the next of kin of each deceased laborer. The Chief Minister has ordered a strict inquiry into the matter to find out how this illegal mining was operating despite the ban.
What action is the High Court taking?
The Meghalaya High Court has taken serious note of this tragedy on its own. The court has directed the state authorities to immediately identify and arrest the mine owners and operators responsible for this illegal activity. Strict legal action is expected against those found guilty.
The court has also summoned the district’s Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police to appear before it on February 9. The police have registered an FIR and are investigating the cause of the explosion, which is suspected to be linked to illegal mining operations.
