Khliehriat, June 4: The Jaintia Coal Miner and Dealer Association (JCMDA) on Thursday held a meeting with various NGOs and pressure groups from East Jaintia Hills district, seeking to consolidate support for its ongoing demand for the resumption of coal mining through the Small Underground Scientific Coal Mining method.
The association expressed gratitude to the participating organisations, stating that their collective support has strengthened the movement advocating for the livelihoods of thousands of people dependent on the coal sector.
According to the JCMDA, the prolonged suspension of coal mining has adversely impacted numerous families in East Jaintia Hills, particularly daily wage earners and economically weaker sections. The association said that the livelihood, dignity and future of many households depend on the early resumption of regulated scientific coal mining.
It noted that while the government has recently indicated certain initiatives through public statements, it hoped these developments would translate into concrete action rather than remain pre-election assurances. The JCMDA also urged the authorities to take decisive steps before the expiry of a three-month deadline it had earlier set.
The association further observed that some organisations which had remained silent for years have now become active following the large public response to the rally organised by JCMDA on April 7, 2026. It alleged that certain groups may be attempting to exploit the situation for vested interests.
Appealing for unity, the JCMDA called on all stakeholders to set aside differences and work collectively for the welfare of coal miners, dealers and workers. It stressed that a united approach was essential to strengthen the movement and achieve its objective.
The association also informed that over the past three months it has undertaken several initiatives, including the preparation of an inclusive coal mining plan and consultations with the Deputy Chief Minister, officials of the Directorate of Mineral Resources (DMR), and the Jaiñtia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC).
Reiterating its commitment to a peaceful and constructive approach, the JCMDA urged the Meghalaya Government and the JHADC to expedite the announcement of a policy on Small Underground Scientific Coal Mining, stating that further delay would continue to aggravate hardships faced by affected communities.
The NGOs and pressure groups that extended their support include the Jaintia Students’ Movement (JSM), Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), Meghalaya People United Front (MPUF), Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU), Jaintia National Council (JNC), Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC), Hima Sutnga Youth Front (HSYF), Hynniewtrep National Youth Front (HNYF), East Jaintia Hills Coal and Minerals Supplier Association (EJHCMSA), Synjuk Waheh Shnong East Jaintia Hills (SWSEJH), Truck Owner and Supplier Association (TOSA), and the Federation of Khasi Jaintia Garo People Association (FKJGPA).
