Govt not allowing illegal mining, transportation of coal in Meghalaya: Kyrmen Shylla 

SHILLONG:

United Democratic Party (UDP) leader and cabinet minister Kyrmen Shylla, on December 13, categorically denied all allegations that the state government is allowing illegal mining and transportation of coal in the state.

“We are supporting illegalities? That is out of the question as we will not allow that (illegalities) in the state,” said Shylla.

His statement came following the recent Meghalaya High Court order that directed the district collectors to take action against those found involved in illegal mining of coal in the state. The order was based on the findings of the Amicus appointed by the court who revealed that there is rampant illegal mining all over the state but little action has been taken by the state in that regard.

Shylla, however, asserted that the state government should listen to the public’s demand and constitute an independent probe into the alleged coal racket.

“If public is really demanding that (inquiry), I think, the government should listen to the public as we are here to serve them,” he said, lauding the police department for doing their best to curb such illegal activities. 

Shylla further stressed on the importance of adhering to the established norms to begin scientific mining of coal in Meghalaya. “I think the best way forward is to fulfill all the requirements; the criteria and norms… especially the NGT rules and the mining act,” he said, adding that the government is trying to help people by educating them how to go about scientific mining.

As far as transportation of coal is concerned, Shylla said, “If they have legal papers like challan or anything, they can go ahead (with the transportation) as the government will earn revenue and at the same time, the public will also earn their livelihood.”

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