GUWAHATI: Bhupen Borah, the President of the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), has leveled grave accusations against the state government concerning illegal coal mining activities in Umrangso.
Borah alleged that the family of Debolal Gorlosa, the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC), is involved in the illegal coal mining operations. He also condemned the state government's inaction on the issue.
Borah remarked, “Allegations have surfaced that the family of NCHAC CEM Debolal Gorlosa is involved in the illegal Umrangso coal mine, yet the state government remains silent on this issue.” His statement comes in response to media reports that have highlighted the alleged involvement of Gorlosa’s family in the illegal mining operations in the area.
The APCC President also highlighted the case of a survivor from the recent rat-hole mine rescue, who allegedly went into hiding after the tragic incident, adding to the complexities surrounding the illegal mining activities in the state.
Borah specifically singled out Kaushik Rai, the newly appointed State Mines & Minerals Minister, accusing him of having links to coal syndicates. Borah referred to local media reports from the day Rai assumed office, which raised concerns about his alleged connections to these syndicates. According to Borah, the increase in coal syndicates since Rai’s appointment has played a role in incidents like the Umrangso coal mine disaster.
The APCC has demanded a comprehensive investigation into the illegal mining activities in Umrangso and called for increased accountability from the state government to address the environmental damage and loss of lives associated with these operations.
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