Shillong, Feb 8: Meghalaya Congress senior member Manuel Badwar has lashed out at the state government, alleging that a nexus between politicians and coal mafia has actively encouraged illegal mining to thrive in Meghalaya.
“It’s looting, with the state becoming poorer while a few families close to the government reap the benefits,” Badwar said following the deadly Thangsko mine explosion on Thursday, which is the latest in a string of deadly incidents at illegally-operated mines in the state.
Badwar compared the issue to the narcotics problem, saying it is a major loss for the state. He questioned what he said was the government’s inaction, citing poor people working in dangerous mines with no one to care.
He accused the government of being aware of dynamite procurement and transportation for mining, saying they’re “part and parcel” of the problem. “Public must respond strongly to such incidents and realise these people are looting us,” he added.
Badwar called the situation “the worst thing happening in Meghalaya society” and a “matter of disgrace” for the state. He demanded stringent action from the central government, including a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe, and for the Supreme Court to take cognizance.
“The Chief Minister should step down on moral grounds. 27 poor people lost their lives, and if the CM says such activities aren’t acceptable but they continue, it’s not acceptable,” Badwar said.
