At least 18 people lost their lives in a devastating explosion at an unauthorised coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district, prompting swift relief measures from the state and central governments and the registration of a suo motu FIR to crack down on illegal mining activities. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced an ex gratia of Rs 3 lakh from the Government of Meghalaya to the next of kin of each deceased victim. In addition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Rs 2 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF).
The ex gratia assistance is aimed at providing immediate relief to the bereaved families and those injured in what has been described as one of the deadliest mining accidents in the region in recent years. The Meghalaya government and its people have expressed gratitude for the Centre’s timely support and solidarity during this period of profound grief.
Following the tragedy, authorities in East Jaintia Hills registered a suo motu FIR at Khliehriat Police Station, invoking multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act and the Explosives Substances Act. The legal action marks a significant step toward addressing the persistent menace of illegal coal mining in the district.