Shillong: The Mining and Geology Department has officially denied that any new small-scale mining policy was discussed during a recent meeting with the Jaintia Coal Owners, Miners, Suppliers and Workers Association. Joint Secretary M.B. Tongper confirmed that while the association requested a reduction in the minimum coal mining lease size from 100 hectares to 3 acres, the government has yet to consider the proposal. Officials have instructed the union to provide detailed facts and justifications before any formal examination can take place at either the state or central government levels.
Amidst the administrative standoff, the association president Marshall S.B. Biam is maintaining his indefinite hunger strike. The group remains locked in a battle over the future of coal mining activities in Meghalaya, and they are currently evaluating their next steps. Association secretary Overcome Dkhar noted that the union plans to update the public soon. He stated, "The association is considering other forms of protest besides the hunger strike."
Internal discussions regarding the group's strategy are expected to conclude early next week. While there is uncertainty surrounding the resumption of local mining, representatives confirmed that Biam’s health has shown signs of improvement as they prepare for further deliberations.
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