Shillong, Feb 16: Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma has appealed to the judiciary to take cognizance of the recent Mynsngat-Thangsko coal mine blast incident and ensure that every instance of illegality is segregated and separately tried in court in order to pave the way for an independent inquiry.
“Justice delayed is justice denied. Therefore, I expect and I still have the hope in the overall wisdom of the judiciary that the court will take cognizance of this and take recourse to a decision which should have its positive ramification to put a halt instantly. That is what is needed and allow an independent inquiry,” Sangma said.
He emphasized that every instance of illegality, including the coal mine blast incident, must be segregated and separately tried in court. “Every instance of illegality of this scale must be segregated and separately tried in the court. Otherwise, another illegality will be there and this will be clubbed and this will be again – so it will not have an end.”
Sangma alleged that the government has a predetermined plan to allow illegalities to continue, citing the example of the Justice Katakey committee’s 35th interim report, which highlights the scale of illegality.
“If you want to put an end to this illegality, this government has to go. So long as you allow this government, this illegality will continue, mark my word,” Sangma said, adding that the chief minister’s repeated denials of the issue in the house were a matter of concern.
Sangma also informed that he is moving a resolution against illegal coal mining despite knowing fully well that the issue is sub judice before the court.
“I came up with this resolution to be moved in the august house knowing fully well that rules do not allow me,” Sangma said, pointing out that the matter is sub judice.
“The government is ensuring that this case, which has been taken up by the high court, is delayed. Any illegality must be taken up in isolation separately.”
Sangma urged the government to take stern action against those responsible and ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
