The A’chik Youth Council (AYC) has written to the Deputy Commissioner of North Garo Hills to request that the inquiry report into illegal coal be made public.
On January 5 this year, the District Magistrate had ordered an inquiry, which was to be led by Additional District Magistrate Tennystar R Marak. This was after reports were received of illegal coal transportation through the Mangsang-Adokgre and Songsak-Adokgre routes.
No timeframe was given in the office order, only for Marak to submit the report “at the earliest”.
“Given the gravity of the issue and the public interest involved, we earnestly request that the findings of this inquiry be made public,” the AYC said. “Transparency in such matters is crucial for upholding the principles of accountability and justice. Citizens have the right to know the outcome of investigations into activities that impact the welfare of our state and its people.”
The illegal transportation of coal not only poses environmental risks but also undermines the rule of law. By making the inquiry report accessible to the public, the government can demonstrate its commitment to combating such illicit activities and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable, the group added.