Sun Feb 09 04:33:14 UTC 2025: ## Meghalaya Party Pushes for Article 371 to Resurrect Banned Rat-Hole Coal Mining

**Guwahati, February 9, 2025** – A regional party in Meghalaya, the Voice of the People Party (VPP), is advocating for the inclusion of Article 371 in the state’s constitution, arguing it could pave the way for the resumption of banned rat-hole coal mining. The party cites Nagaland, where Article 371A protects land and resources, allowing for continued (though controversial) mining activities despite National Green Tribunal (NGT) restrictions elsewhere.

VPP candidate Kharjaha, contesting the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) elections, claims that Article 371A prevents NGT intervention in Nagaland’s coal mining. He believes a similar provision in Meghalaya would shield the state from the 2014 NGT ban on rat-hole mining, a ban upheld by the Supreme Court. While acknowledging the Sixth Schedule’s power to regulate land and resources, Kharjaha argues that Article 371 would override conflicting state laws. The VPP plans to make this a key policy in the 2028 Assembly elections.

However, this proposal faces opposition. The United Democratic Party (UDP) argues that Article 371 and the Sixth Schedule are incompatible. This debate comes just a week after the signing of three escrow agreements for scientific coal mining in different districts. The state government views these agreements as crucial for economic growth and job creation.

The ongoing KHADC and JHADC elections, scheduled for February 21st, highlight another issue: the underrepresentation of women. Despite female voters outnumbering male voters in both councils, only 19 out of 272 candidates are women. Vote counting will take place on February 24th.

Read More