In connection with the recent death of six miners at an illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills, police have picked up over 17 people for interrogation, said Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.

The incident resulted because of mechanical fails at the tri-junction of Dienshalalu near Rymbai on January 21, said Deputy Commissioner of East Jaintia Hills, E. Kharmalki.

Sangma told reporters, “There are some more people who are still on the move. I am yet to get the full report on the investigation of this case”.

Strict action will be taken against people involved in illegal activities especially in illegal coal mining, said the Chief Minister.

“We have already lodged an FIR. We are going to institute an inquiry into this matter,” the Chief Minister informed.
Sangma replied that laws are implemented to deal with illegal coal mining when questioned about continuation of illegal coal mining in state.

“As per the Mines & Minerals (Development and Regulations) Act, people who are indulging in illegal coal mining are liable to five years imprisonment,” he added.