By Sainkupar Syngkli
SHILLONG:
In recent years, illegal coal transportation has drawn a lot of attention. Even after the National Green Tribunal (NGT) made it illegal, there are still an increasing number of instances of illegal coal transportation.
According to the police report, 11 people have been detained under Section 41A in total over the course of six months, with a total of 8 cases registered and 9 vehicles seized.
The Superintendent of Police, Ri Bhoi, told The Meghalayan that since the NGT prohibited the transportation of coal, 532 cases have been filed, 2009 vehicles have been seized, and 410 individuals have been detained in accordance with Section 41A.
The question is fairly ambiguous. The proprietors are rarely arrested; usually, just the drivers and handymen are. ‘How many owners were called?’
To which,the SP of Ri Bhoi replied, “The police summoned the owner as well, and they responded after the notice was issued by the department.”
On asked by the Meghalayan if there was a claim of a connection between politicians, businesses, and police ,he replied,’I can give you only the official report, but for the allegation against the politician, I have nothing to comment on because I am not a politician.’
About the recent case at Umling, the SP of Ri Bhoi said, “We have summoned him under Section 41A of the CrPC, and he has responded to it; we have also arrested the driver and the helper; at the same time, necessary action has been taken under the MMDR Act.”
It can be mentioned that on April 12, 2023, a truck carrying illegal coal fell into the gorge at Umling, which surprised everyone. These vehicles were banned by the NGT and the government, but they were still free to go around.
On asked how the police are managing such delicate situations, given that it involves sensitive subjects like the black diamond, the SP replied “Patrolling team is there to check for illegal transportation of Coal and other mineral”.