Shillong | Feb 6,2026 | SKY LINK TIMES
Meghalaya Coal Mine Tragedy:
In a strong judicial intervention, the Meghalaya High Court has ordered the immediate arrest of mine owners and operators linked to a deadly explosion at an alleged illegal coal mining site in East Jaintia Hills district that claimed at least 18 lives.
The division bench comprising Justice H.S. Thangkhiew and Justice W. Diengdoh took suo motu cognisance of media reports regarding the explosion that occurred in the Thangsku area on Thursday. The court expressed serious concern over the continued operation of illegal coal mines despite previous bans and earlier fatal incidents.
Table of Contents
High Court Takes Stern View on Illegal Mining
The bench observed that repeated mining tragedies indicate grave administrative lapses and non-compliance with court directives. Notably, a similar fatal incident had been reported on January 14 this year, raising questions about enforcement failures.
The High Court directed the Deputy Commissioner (DC) and Superintendent of Police (SP) of East Jaintia Hills to:
• Identify and arrest all mine owners and operators involved
• Seize mining equipment and incriminating documents
• Submit a detailed action report before the court
The officials have been summoned to appear in person on February 9 to explain the steps taken so far and clarify how prohibited mining activities were allowed to persist.
The court warned that stringent directions would follow if concrete action is not demonstrated.
18 Bodies Recovered in One of the Deadliest Incidents
At least 18 labourers lost their lives in what is being described as one of the deadliest mining accidents in recent years in Meghalaya. The explosion occurred at a suspected illegal coal mine in the Thangsku area of East Jaintia Hills district.
Rescue operations led to the recovery of the bodies, while authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage and identify those responsible.
Also Read:https://skylinktimes.in/india-to-host-asian-shooting-championship-2027/
Government Orders Inquiry, Promises Accountability
Meghalaya Chief Minister has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the incident. In an official statement, he assured that accountability would be fixed and strict legal action would be taken against those responsible.
“The Government of Meghalaya has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into the incident. Accountability will be fixed, and those responsible will face strict legal action,” the Chief Minister said.
He further emphasized that there would be no leniency in matters involving public safety and that the administration would take all necessary legal and administrative measures based on the findings of the inquiry.
Questions Over Enforcement and Mining Ban
Illegal coal mining, particularly the controversial “rat-hole mining” practice, has long been a contentious issue in Meghalaya. Despite legal restrictions and court-imposed bans, reports suggest that unauthorized mining continues in certain districts.
The latest tragedy has reignited concerns over regulatory oversight, enforcement mechanisms, and administrative accountability in the region.
As the High Court intensifies scrutiny, all eyes are now on the district administration’s response ahead of the February 9 hearing.
For More Info Stay Tuned: https://skylinktimes.in
