Editor
MEGHALAYA: The Meghalaya High Court recently issued a significant directive to the Director General of Police (DGP) in Assam, urging swift action against individuals accused of partaking in unlawful coal mining and transportation in Meghalaya. Notably, the court placed paramount importance on ensuring the safety and security of the petitioners involved in the case. This development transpired subsequent to a show cause notice being served to the Meghalaya government, contemplating the potential initiation of a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the illicit coal mining activities, which seemingly involve individuals based in Assam.
Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee, heading the full bench of the Meghalaya High Court, took charge and instructed the Assam DGP to conduct a thorough investigation into the complaint filed by the petitioner on June 30, 2023. Furthermore, the court explicitly directed the Assam Police to employ appropriate legal measures against all those implicated in the alleged illegal coal mining operations. By doing so, the court aims to address the concerns raised by the petitioner regarding the threats and intimidation they faced subsequent to lodging a First Information Report (FIR) at Basistha Police Station.
In addition to taking action against the accused, the Assam DGP has been entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring the safety and security of the petitioners, their families, and the lawyers representing them. This directive from the court serves as a stern reminder of the imperative nature of safeguarding the rights and well-being of all those involved in the legal proceedings pertaining to illegal coal mining and transportation.
To further delve into the matter at hand, the Meghalaya High Court has scheduled an upcoming hearing on July 13. This hearing is slated to address various petitions related to the issue of illegal coal mining and transportation. It is anticipated that further significant developments will transpire during this hearing, shedding light on the path ahead in combating this pervasive issue.
Overall, the recent directive from the Meghalaya High Court, compelling the Assam DGP to take prompt action against individuals involved in illegal coal mining and transportation, signifies a crucial step towards curbing this illicit activity. By prioritizing the safety of the petitioners and emphasizing the need for thorough investigations, the court showcases its commitment to upholding justice and protecting the rights of those affected by such activities. With the upcoming hearing, the legal proceedings are set to advance, and one can anticipate a continued push towards rectifying the situation surrounding illegal coal mining and transportation in the region.