Umrangso mining tragedy: Sixth schedule body demands release of inquiry report, alleges high-level nexus

Months after the rat hole mining tragedy in Umrangso that claimed the lives of nine workers, the Sixth Schedule Protection Committee of Dima Hasao has demanded the immediate public release of the One-Man Inquiry Commission report. 

The report, prepared by Retired Judge Anima Hazarika, was commissioned to investigate the incident, but is yet to be made public.

Daniel Langthasa, convenor of the committee and a former member of the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC), has alleged that the illegal mining racket has long been operating with the knowledge and involvement of top district authorities. 

He specifically named the current Chief Executive Member (CEM) of NCHAC, Debolal Gorlosa, and his wife Kanika Hojai, alleging their direct links to rat hole mining operations.

“In Dima Hasao district, the CEM and his wife have been running rat hole mines for years. Kanika Hojai is even an approved customer of the Assam Mineral Development Corporation Ltd. How can authorities claim ignorance when hundreds of such illegal mines have been operating openly?” Langthasa questioned.

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He accused the administration of profiting from illegal mining while turning a blind eye until the recent tragedy exposed the dangerous industry. “This cannot be brushed under the carpet. The miners lost their lives, and the illegal operations were conveniently paused. But unless action is taken and those responsible are punished, the mines will quietly reopen,” he warned.

Langthasa reiterated that the public of Dima Hasao has the right to know the findings of the inquiry. “The commission had a deadline. We are demanding that the report be released immediately in the public interest. Any attempt to suppress it would be unjust, and immediate steps must be taken based on its findings,” he said.

The state government has not yet commented on when the report will be released or whether any action will follow based on its contents.