ANI | New Delhi, February 6 President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in a coal mine explosion in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district, describing the incident as “painful” and extending condolences to the bereaved families.
“It is painful to hear about the loss of lives of workers in an unfortunate accident in the East Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya. I convey my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the early recovery of the injured,” the President said in a post on X.
At least 18 people were killed in a dynamite explosion at a suspected illegal coal mine in the Mynsyngat, Thangsko (Thangskai) area around 11 am on Thursday. One person sustained injuries and has been hospitalised. The mine is located in a remote area, about 25 km from the district headquarters, accessible only by four-wheel-drive vehicles, posing challenges to rescue operations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled the deaths and announced ex-gratia compensation of Rs 2 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF), while the injured will receive Rs 50,000.
“Pained by the mishap in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest,” the Prime Minister said.
Vice President C P Radhakrishnan expressed grief over the tragedy and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and assured all possible support from the central government. The Chief Minister thanked the Prime Minister for the timely assistance and announced an additional ex-gratia of Rs 3 lakh from the Meghalaya government to the families of the deceased.
Union Minister for Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy said the incident caused him “deep anguish” and stressed the need to curb illegal mining in the state. He confirmed that Meghalaya has no government-operated or auctioned coal mines and said the ministry has sought a detailed report from the state government.
“Illegal coal mining occurs there. This needs to be stopped under the supervision of the state government. Such accidents should not occur,” Reddy said.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav also expressed condolences and called for accountability and adequate financial assistance to the affected families.
Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar confirmed that 18 bodies have been recovered so far. Teams from the NDRF, SDRF, and Special Rescue Team (SRT) remain deployed at the site as recovery operations continue.
An FIR has been registered at Khliehriat police station under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, and the Explosives Substances Act. Police have appealed to the public to share information related to illegal mining activities, assuring confidentiality and rewards.
Chief Minister Sangma said the state government has ordered a comprehensive inquiry, asserting that accountability will be fixed and strict legal action taken against those responsible.
“There will be no compromise when it comes to the safety of lives,” he said, adding that illegal activities would not be tolerated. Two cabinet ministers have been directed to visit the district to review the situation and ensure there are no lapses in relief and rescue efforts. (ANI)
About The Author
