Shillong, Feb 10: The Jaiñtia National Council (JNC) has stated that the Thangsko blast was not a simple accident but a conspiracy to attack communities.
Addressing a press conference here today, JNC President Sambormi Lyngdoh said most of the workers in the area are “Bangladeshi Muslims” and that Bangladesh has been threatening the peace of the North East from time to time.
He said the judicial inquiry instituted by the government should not only probe illegal coal mining but entry of illegal immigrants into Jaintia Hills.
He urged the State government to take strict action against illegal foreigners residing in the district and the police to arrest those involved, especially those who are responsible for bringing workers illegally from Bangladesh.
“We do not want our land to become a source of livelihood for illegal settlers,” he said.
The JNC said the centre and the state should opt for small-scale scientific coal mining in Meghalaya. Lyngdoh stated that this will stop illegal mining activities.
“Scientific mining is permitted only for those who own 100 hectares or more of land. Very few people own land of such large size, and this is the main reason which forces many locals to engage in illegal mining activities,” Lyngdoh said.
