SHILLONG, APR 2: Coal miners in Meghalaya are set to hold a public rally on April 7 to press the State and Central governments to formulate a scientific mining policy tailored to the region’s unique land tenure system and geological conditions.

“We want the state government to engage with the Centre to implement scientific mining that suits our people’s practices,” President of the Jaintia Coal Miners and Dealers Association Borrin Shadap told reporters at a news conference held on Thursday. 

“The Supreme Court’s lifting of the ban is a welcome move, affirming our rights as landowners under the Sixth Schedule.”

Association member Sambormi Lyngdoh highlighted the environmental concerns and practical challenges of open-cast mining in Jaintia Hills. 

“Open-cast mining isn’t feasible here; we need a policy that considers our terrain and land ownership patterns,” Lyngdoh said.

The rally aims to urge the state government to constitute a committee to survey land conditions and draft a policy addressing the concerns of small-time miners. 

“We need a policy that works for us, not against us,” Lyngdoh emphasized.

The association is inviting all stakeholders, including coal miners, truckers, and workers, to join the rally. 

“We want to show we’re committed to responsible mining, not illegal activities,” Lyngdoh said. 

“It’s time the government addressed our issues.”