Wed Jan 29 17:43:40 UTC 2025: ## Meghalaya Panel Finds Evidence of Illegal Coal Mining Despite Supreme Court Ban
**GUWAHATI, INDIA – January 30, 2025** – A High Court-appointed committee in Meghalaya has uncovered evidence of illegal coal mining and transportation in the state’s South Garo Hills district, despite a 2014 Supreme Court ban on hazardous rat-hole mining. The committee, headed by retired judge B. P. Katakey, reported that “coal is coming from somewhere, and mining is taking place,” based on information gathered during its investigation.
The findings contradict claims by most District Magistrates who denied any mining activity within their jurisdictions. However, the South Garo Hills District Magistrate reported the seizure of over 2,500 metric tonnes of illegal coal between November 2024 and January 2025. The committee is currently investigating seven complaints of illegal mining, one of which includes a video. Notices have been issued, and statements will be recorded from those involved.
The committee is also auditing coal sources used by cement plants and has demanded ₹400 crore in payments, a decision currently under appeal in the Supreme Court. Furthermore, an aerial survey to identify active rat-hole mines is underway, with results expected by February 28th.
In a separate development, the Gauhati High Court issued notices to the Assam government regarding a coal mine mishap in Dima Hasao district, where four of nine trapped miners have been recovered. The Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council and relevant departments are also implicated and will face a hearing on February 7th. The incidents highlight the ongoing challenges in enforcing the ban on illegal coal mining in the region.
First Piper 