Assam: AJP leader inspects illegal coal mines in Margherita's Ledo, slams state government

Asom Jatiya Parishad (AJP) General Secretary Jagdish Bhuyan visited several illegal coal mines in Margherita Ledo today, exposing rampant illegal mining activities in the region.

Bhuyan, accompanied by a tribal group from the National Council, visited the ongoing Rathole mining field in Ledo's Tikok and as well as Dipmine. After witnessing the large-scale illegal mining firsthand, the leader reportedly fell silent before launching a scathing attack on the Assam government and the police for their failure to curb unlawful activities.

Bhuyan announced that his party would initiate a definitive probe into how illegal coal mining operations have been able to continue with impunity, particularly under the Kalindiar area. 

He highlighted that more than 60 illegal coal reserves are operating within a one-to-two-kilometre stretch under Kolandia, leading to severe financial losses for the North Eastern Coalfields (NEC).

Calling for immediate action, the AJP leader demanded the closure of all illegal coal kilns and the arrest of every businessman involved in the illicit trade. 

He also expressed dissatisfaction over the enforcement efforts of the authorities, questioning their inability to dismantle the deep-rooted nexus of illegal coal smuggling.

Bhuyan also criticised Assam Director General of Police (DGP) G.P. Singh’s recent order, issued via Twitter, directing authorities to put an end to Rathall mining in Margherita, Lidu, and Lekhapani within seven days. 

He questioned the effectiveness of such announcements in tackling illegal mining on the ground, emphasizing the need for strict enforcement and accountability.

The issue of illegal coal mining in Margherita Ledo has long been a contentious one, with allegations of political and administrative complicity surfacing time and again. 

With Bhuyan’s latest intervention, the matter is once again under the spotlight, raising fresh demands for stringent action against those facilitating illegal mining operations.