Tribal organisations oppose proposed open-cast mining by north eastern coalfields in Assam's Margherita

At least eight tribal organisations from the Tirap Tribal Belt have strongly opposed the proposed open-cast coal mining project by North Eastern Coalfields (NEC) in Saliki village under Lekhapani in the 83rd Margherita Legislative Assembly Constituency.

Addressing a press conference, representatives of various local bodies, along with residents of the historic Saliki village, alleged that NEC, a subsidiary of Coal India Limited, is making unilateral preparations to begin open-cast mining without conducting proper consultations or discussions with the affected villagers.

The organisations claimed that a No Objection Certificate (NOC) was obtained during a Tirap Colliery Gaon Panchayat meeting without the knowledge or informed consent of the people of Saliki village. They termed the move as arbitrary and contrary to the interests of indigenous communities residing in the area.

The tribal groups further warned that if NEC proceeds with open-cast mining in violation of due procedures, environmental norms, and statutory regulations, and attempts to forcibly commence operations, they will launch democratic protests and take to the streets in strong opposition.

The organisations demanded transparency, adherence to legal provisions, and meaningful consultation with local residents before any mining activity is undertaken in the region.