SHILLONG, Feb 5: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Thursday expressed deep grief over the tragic coal mine mishap in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district and announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 3 lakhs to the next of kin of the deceased.
At least, 18 miners were confirmed dead and one seriously injured in one of Meghalaya’s deadliest illegal mining disasters that occured today morning.
The Chief Minister also ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the deadliest coal mine incident in the state.
“Accountability will be fixed, and those responsible will face strict legal action. There will be no compromise when it comes to the safety of lives,” Sangma assured.
“Profoundly saddened by the tragic coal mine incident in East Jaintia Hills. My deepest sympathies are with the families who have lost their loved ones in this unfortunate tragedy. In this moment of sorrow, the State stands in solidarity with all those affected,” the Chief Minister said.
The tragic incident occurred on Thursday morning in Mynsngat Thangkso area under East Jaintia Hills district following a massive dynamite explosion inside the illegal rat-hole coal mine.
A Suo-motu FIR has been registered vide Khliehriat PS case no 14/2026 U/s 105/118(2)/3(5) BNS R/W section 21/21(1) MMDR Act R/W section 3 Explosives Substances Act in connection with the incident and investigation in on.
(UNI)
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