Shillong, Feb 16: Conrad K Sangma on Monday said the Judicial Inquiry Commission probing the deadly Mynsngat–Thangsko mine explosion in East Jaintia Hills has been given six months to submit its report.

Making a suo motu statement on the first day of the Budget Session of the Assembly, the Chief Minister said the Commission will investigate not only the February 5, 2026 explosion — which claimed the lives of more than 30 workers — but also examine the root causes of illegal coal mining in the state.

“The judicial commission of inquiry, as per the terms of reference, will undertake not only an investigation of the incident that occurred on 5th February, 2026 but will examine the root cause of illegal mining and suggest measures, which will as per the Commission of Inquiry Act again be placed in this August House,” Sangma said.

He assured that the government remains committed to ensuring that illegal coal mining and illegal transportation do not go unchecked.

Commission Headed by Former Chief Justice

The Judicial Inquiry Commission, constituted under the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952 and notified on February 14, is headed by former Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court and Telangana High Court. The two members are retired IPS officer H Nongpluh and retired IAS officer Peter Dkhar.

According to the terms of reference, the Commission will:

Inquire into the circumstances leading to the February 5 incident at coal mines in Mynsngat–Thangsko village, East Jaintia Hills.

Submit a comprehensive fact-finding report on the acts and/or omissions of persons and authorities concerned, including any failure to prevent the incident.

Examine the root causes of illegal coal mining in Meghalaya, including working conditions of labourers and miners dependent on coal mining.

Recommend administrative and institutional reforms to prevent recurrence of such incidents.

Relief, Rehabilitation and Legal Review

The Commission has also been tasked with suggesting appropriate measures, including financial packages or rehabilitation schemes, for those whose livelihoods depended on coal mining prior to the ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal.

Additionally, it will examine whether the state government should approach the President of India for any relaxation, modification, or exception in the application of provisions of the Mines and Minerals Development Act or other applicable central laws, under Paragraph 12(A)(b) of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, considering Meghalaya’s traditional mining practices.

“The Commission will submit its report within a period of six months,” the Chief Minister said.

He further reiterated that the government is pushing forward with scientific mining, with three approvals already granted and 20 more applications forwarded to the Government of India, currently at advanced stages of clearance.