Shillong: Justice BP Katakey released his 40th interim report. It reveals a massive breakdown in enforcement against illegal coal mining. Between 2023 and 2026, authorities recorded 64 cases of illegal coal transport and 127 cases of illegal extraction across Meghalaya. Police seized 62 vehicles and 92 pieces of equipment during this period.
The report highlights a frustrating lack of follow-up. Despite these significant seizures, authorities failed to push most cases forward. The committee specifically noted, "iara niam gri koela bikotani aro koela salruraanio, ia bosturangko aro garirangko rim·ahaoba, iarangni kosako ja·ku de·ani bidingo maming koborrangko on·piltaia dongjaha."
Police records show 29 vehicles were caught in 2023, one in 2025, and 32 in 2026. Officials also booked six coal mine owners and one landowner. However, legal action remains stalled. Only one case has moved forward under sections 21(4) and 21(4A) of the Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation Act of 1957.
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