Congress's Ripun Bora slams Assam CM for mining mishap, hints at ruling party

Congress leader Ripun Bora has criticized the Assam government, holding Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma accountable for the illegal mining practices in the state, particularly in the Dima Hasao district, which he claims led to the recent mine tragedy. Speaking to India Today NE, Bora alleged that the mining activities were carried out without adhering to legal and scientific procedures, endangering laborers' lives.

"This is very unfortunate and totally illegal," Bora remarked. He accused the Chief Executive Member of the Dima Hasao District Council of operating an illegal mining syndicate and alleged that the Chief Minister's silence on the matter enabled these activities to continue unchecked. Bora stated that the absence of a scientific system and disregard for safety measures were key reasons for laborers being trapped in the mine.

The Congress leader further criticized the government for allegedly ignoring the Supreme Court's orders restricting open-cast mining. "Despite the standing order, open-cast mining is still happening secretly," he said, pointing fingers at the Chief Minister and other officials for allegedly being part of a coal syndicate.

Bora also dismissed the government's repeated claims of having eradicated syndicates, stating, "The Chief Minister and ministers are part of this syndicate. Because of these syndicates, illegal activities continue to flourish."