Meghalaya MP Kharlukhi vows to raise coal ban issue in Parliament

CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament from Meghalaya, Dr. W.R. Kharlukhi, has strongly criticized the National Green Tribunal (NGT), accusing it of maintaining “double standards” in enforcing environmental regulations. Dr. Kharlukhi announced that he will submit a Zero Hour notice in Parliament to highlight what he sees as an unjust crackdown on small-scale coal miners in Meghalaya, while larger industrial polluters continue to operate unchecked.

“NGT is targeting our people—small coal miners whose livelihoods depend on coal—while pollution from heavy industries is killing millions. What has the NGT done about that?” Dr. Kharlukhi questioned on Monday. He expressed deep frustration over the long-standing ban on rat-hole coal mining in the state, which has adversely affected local communities. Dr. Kharlukhi pointed out that coal mining has been integral to the region’s economy for over four decades, and the sudden ban has severely disrupted the livelihoods of miners, significantly reduced the state’s revenue, and negatively impacted the District Councils. He demanded to know why no similar action is being taken against major industries that contribute to widespread pollution.

Dr. Kharlukhi argued that the real issue lies in illegal coal dumping, not in the act of mining itself. “To me, it’s the illegal dumping that pollutes rivers, not the act of mining. There should be a designated space for coal storage, just like there is for cement. The dumping is what affects the rivers—not mining per se,” he explained.

He called for a more balanced and evidence-based approach to regulation. “Human lives are just as important as the environment. While illegal rat-hole mining has its consequences, we cannot ignore the silent deaths caused by industrial pollution,” he said.

Dr. Kharlukhi also warned of the rising social risks stemming from a lack of livelihood opportunities. Referring to recent drug-related arrests in Khliehriat, he stated, “Now that coal mining is halted, look at what’s happening—recent drug-related arrests in Khliehriat are a worrying sign. If youth lose their source of income and turn to drugs, what future will we have?”

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