The High Court of Meghalaya has expressed dissatisfaction with the state government’s compensation measures and post-investigation steps related to the dynamite blast at Mynsngat-Thangsko, which resulted in 34 fatalities and five serious injuries. During the hearing of a status report, the Division Bench, composed of Justices Hamarsan Singh Thangkhiew and Wanlura Diengdoh, deemed the state’s actions inadequate in addressing the incident’s severity. The court emphasized the need for the government to act credibly to restore public confidence in the rule of law.
The court noted that interim compensation had only been provided to the next of kin of eight deceased individuals, with no updates on those from Nepal and Assam. Despite challenges in identifying legal heirs, the court rejected this as a hindrance, directing authorities to expedite resolutions through the Nepalese Embassy and to extend efforts for victims from Assam.
Concerning the Judicial Enquiry Commission, the court found the terms of reference insufficient, lacking accountability measures for the individuals or authorities involved. It called for a probe into the illegal coal trade, emphasizing its profitability and urging the state to incorporate this in the inquiry. The court also reviewed the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) responsible for a thorough investigation into the mining accident but expressed concern over the team being led by a less senior officer. The Advocate General assured the court of appointing a higher-ranking official to ensure a rigorous investigation aimed at curbing future illegal mining.
While the status report detailed actions taken, including FIRs, arrests, and seizures, the court asserted the need for continued efforts, including actions against district officials and police involved in oversight during the incident. The court instructed further examination of the network facilitating illegal coal mining, including transport officials, police, and NGOs. The case will be heard again on March 5, with specific police officials required to attend the next session.