Shillong: East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal confirmed on Tuesday that the magisterial inquiry into the Lapalang tragedy remains unfinished. Officials are still waiting on critical post-mortem reports to wrap up the investigation. These findings will clarify the sequence of events and identify any legal or procedural lapses, including the potential unauthorized use of a diesel pump inside an underground reservoir.
The incident occurred on July 14 at Dongmadan Lane-4. Five people died after inhaling toxic fumes inside a 33-foot-deep water tank. Three labourers were cleaning the site when they became trapped. Brothers Sunil Thakuri, 34, and Umesh Thakuri, 30, died while attempting a rescue. The other victims include Pynskhemlang Mawthoh, 22, Rapborlang Nongspung, 35, and Elka Shadap, 25.
While the magisterial probe remains open, a separate investigation by the Deputy Labour Commissioner is complete. This report moves the process forward for the three primary labourers. Baranwal noted the push for relief under the Employees Compensation Act, 1923. "We have asked him to forward it to the Commissioner for Employees’ Compensation so that the families of the three labourers who lost their lives while working under the contractor can receive some relief," Baranwal stated.
A final call on compensation for the two rescuers, Sunil and Umesh Thakuri, depends on the magisterial report. The district administration will decide their status once the full inquiry concludes.
Comments