Shillong, June 17: The Jaiñtia Coal Miners and Suppliers Welfare Association (COMSWA) has expressed disappointment over the outcome of its meeting with the Meghalaya Government, stating that no immediate measures were announced to address the pressing concerns of coal miners in East Jaiñtia Hills.
Speaking after the meeting, COMSWA President Marshall Biam, who is currently on a hunger strike seeking government intervention in the coal sector, said members of the association were dissatisfied as their key demands remained unresolved.
The meeting, chaired by Meghalaya Chief Secretary Shakil Ahmed, focused on challenges confronting coal miners, particularly small-scale operators who are struggling with the high costs associated with scientific mining and increasing competition from larger mining companies.
According to Biam, the Government has agreed to constitute a committee comprising five representatives from COMSWA to examine the issues raised by the mining community and recommend possible solutions. The association also urged the Government to review and reduce areas currently under mining restrictions, arguing that the limitations have significantly affected the livelihoods of mine owners, workers and other stakeholders dependent on the sector.
In response, the Government assured that the matter would be examined. However, officials from the Mining Department and the Government’s legal team informed the meeting that no immediate decision could be taken as the State is awaiting the opinion of the Advocate General on legal issues concerning coal mining operations.
A follow-up meeting is expected after June 29 to further deliberate on the concerns raised by miners and explore potential policy interventions.
The meeting also reviewed the Meghalaya Environment Protection and Restoration Fund (MEPRF), through which individuals adversely affected by the suspension of coal mining activities may apply for financial assistance through the office of the respective Deputy Commissioner.
Despite the assurances given by the Government, COMSWA maintained that the discussions did not meet the expectations of the mining community, as none of its major demands received immediate approval. Nevertheless, the association expressed hope that the next round of talks would lead to more concrete decisions and a favourable resolution for coal miners and suppliers in Jaiñtia Hills.
The developments come amid growing concerns within the coal sector over regulatory challenges, livelihood issues and the implementation of scientific mining practices in Meghalaya
