Assam: Massive protest in Margherita over halting of coal mining operations

Guwahati: Protests have erupted over the shutting down of operations at North East Coal Fields in Upper Assam's Margherita, a decision that is expected to render thousands jobless. The decision to halt operations was taken amid raging controversy surrounding mining in Dehing-Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary.

Amid the row regarding allowing coal mining in areas of Dehing-Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary, the operations at the North East Coal Fields, a unit of Coal India in Margherita has been shut. This move has been decried by locals, and several hundred today took out a protest to express their dissent. Somewhat alarmingly, none of the protesters seemed to be paying heed to the social distancing norms that have been put in place by the Central Government to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus.

"We are apologetic for not being able to observe social distancing. But we have come out in great numbers because the mine has been closed down. We condemn the opposition party leaders and the non-political organization leaders for spreading misinformation about mining. They should seek forgiveness", an agitator said.

The agitator also said that the halting of coal mining activities in Margherita would badly impact the economy of Margherita town, which primarily derives its subsistence from mining activities. "We urge the Government to conduct an investigation into the issue and to deliver us from this problem", he added.

At a time when people are already fighting the Covid-19 and the state is faced with a huge unemployment problem, the fate of these employees now hangs in the balance.

It must be mentioned here that the North-Eastern Coalfields (NEC), a unit of Coal India Limited in Assam, has temporarily halted its operations following protests over its impact on the Dehing-Patkai rainforest. An office order signed by NEC's general manager based in eastern Assam's Margherita said all mining operations have been suspended with effect from June 3.'

"The liquidation of present coal-stock will continue till existing coal stock is exhausted" and all necessary statutory formalities would be taken up with the statutory bodies concerned", the order added.

Meanwhile, the Gauhati High Court has also taken up a suo moto case in regards to coal mining in the area. The Division bench of the Guwahati High Court, which has taken up a suo moto case against coal mining activities in Dehing Patkai, has issued an order that says if respondents -- including the Assam Government and the Central Government -- fail to file their affidavits "clarifying each aspect of the matter, whether before taking any steps for allowing mining, environmental impact has been assessed or not" by June 14, exemplary cost would be imposed. July 20 has been set as the next date of hearing.

ALSO WATCH: NewsMakers Live: Schools Post Covid in an exclusive chat with Oineetom Ojah