Khliehriat, Jun 16: Hundreds of people joined a public rally organised by the Jaintia Coal Owners, Miners, Suppliers and Workers Association (JCOMSWA) despite a prohibitory order imposed by the East Jaintia Hills district administration restricting public gatherings.
The rally stretched from Ladrymbai Dongwah to Khliehriat to push for the resumption of small-scale mining activities in the state.
The coal lobby has been increasing pressure on the state government, asserting that restarting small-scale mining is crucial for local economies and employment. Participants at the rally voiced their discontent regarding the ban on coal mining and demanded action from state authorities.
Yesterday, the district administration had urged that the gathering be called off stating that ongoing discussions between the state government and centre regarding mining policies are on.
Protesters held a sit-in on the road near the DC’s office as law enforcement was deployed nearby to ensure safety and manage the crowd.
A select group of protesters later met with the Deputy Commissioner, who advised them to pursue a discussion with the Chief Secretary on Wednesday in Shillong to further address their concerns.
Meanwhile, JCOMSWA president Marshall S.B. Biam, who had been on an indefinite hunger strike from June 1 has been taken to Woodland Hospital in Sabahmuswang after his health deteriorated.
In the absence of Biam, association member Jeper Thoo has continued the indefinite hunger strike.
