Probe into Meghalaya Mine Explosion: Accountability and Reforms in Focus

Justice RS Chauhan, a retired high court judge, has been appointed as the head of a judicial panel to investigate the devastating explosion at an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district, which claimed 31 lives. The panel's task is to fix accountability and examine constitutional exemptions regarding central mining laws.

Joining Chauhan on the three-member panel are retired IPS officer H Nongpluh and former IAS officer PS Dkhar. The inquiry is established under the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952. The focus will be a detailed fact-finding mission covering the explosion at the illegal mine in the remote Thangsku area of Mynsngat village.

The commission has until six months from February 14 to submit its report, including findings and recommendations, to the state government. The scope extends beyond accountability to assess the causes of illegal coal mining, working conditions for laborers, and effects of the 2014 coal mining ban. Additionally, it will suggest remedies and reforms for those impacted.