A nokma in Nengchigen village under West Khasi district has lodged an FIR against illegal coal mining in their clan lands and the presence of armed militants used to protect the dubious activity. Seven people involved alleged to be involved have been named.
Kristina G Marak, a clan nokma in a complaint to the Shallang police station alleged that rat-hole coal mining was being carried in the area by Alnet Marak, Clington Marak, Pandit Momin, Toban Marak, Nazim Ali, Lipson Momin and Pangseng Sangma.
The nokma said these seven persons had also threatened clan members when they were asked to stop the mining. She said they were getting the support of the police in the area, who are paid Rs 500 per trip by coal laden trucks transporting coal.
As per the complaint, the persons are also working hand in gloves with three illegal coal check gates at Rengchi, Rajagula and Chimilam under the village. The letter also revealed that armed militants are seen and they are used to instill fear among the village people. Even villagers are being used to collect money from trucks, thereby putting the lives of people who are forced to take part in lawlessness, under threat.
West Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police, Herbert G Lyngdoh told Highland Post that an enquiry is being conducted.
It may be mentioned this is the second complaint lodge against illegal coal mining in Nengchigen.
In December last year, a resident of the village had lodged a complaint against forcible mining of coal on their clan lands.
