The Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), under the leadership of its President Bhupen Bora, has intensified its attack on the state government over the recent coal mine tragedy in Umrangso, Dima Hasao district. The incident, which occurred on January 6, trapped nine laborers in an illegal coal mine in the Tin Kilo area, highlighting what the Congress describes as rampant “Syndicate Raj” in the state.
Acting on Bora’s directions, a team led by APCC Working President and MLA Jakir Hussain Sikdar visited the site yesterday to assess the situation. The Congress delegation has demanded an immediate probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into illegal, unauthorized, and unscientific mining practices that led to the tragedy.
To escalate its protest, the APCC has called for district-wide sit-ins (Abosthan Dharmoghat) on January 10, involving all District Congress Committees (DCCs), party leaders, and cadres. The protest will hold the BJP-led Assam government accountable for its alleged role in enabling illegal mining activities.
Key Points Raised by the Congress
Syndicate Raj and Illegal Mining: The Congress has repeatedly flagged concerns about illegal coal mining and the “Syndicate Raj” operating under the BJP government. Despite this, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has denied the existence of such practices in Assam.
Environmental and Legal Violations: The Supreme Court has mandated that coal mining must adhere to strict licensing and environmental guidelines. However, unscientific and unauthorized mining, such as the operations in Tin Kilo, has become rampant, causing severe harm to the environment and risking lives.
Allegations Against the Government: Bhupen Bora questioned whether the Chief Minister, often absent from the state in pursuit of national political ambitions, is unaware of the illegal mining operations or complicit in their flourishing. The Congress alleged that district officials, including the DC and SP, along with state BJP ministers, are part of this nexus.
Involvement of Local Politicians: The Congress accused local BJP leaders, including the family of Debolal Garlosa, Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council, of direct involvement in illegal mining. A truck pass for illegal coal transport, reportedly linked to Garlosa’s wife, Kanika Hojai, was cited as evidence.
Extent of Illegal Mining: According to media reports, the Tin Kilo incident is merely the tip of the iceberg. Illegal mining is widespread in other areas of Dima Hasao, including Kalamati, pointing to a larger systemic failure.
Demands from the Congress
- Accountability of the Chief Minister: The APCC has labeled Himanta Biswa Sarma as the “King-Pin” of the coal mafia and called for justice through public scrutiny, or “Raijor Adalat” (People’s Court), if statutory mechanisms fail.
- Punishment for Culprits: The Congress demanded exemplary punishment for all individuals involved in illegal mining, including high-ranking officials and political leaders.
- Compensation for Victims: Adequate compensation for the families of deceased and injured laborers was also demanded by the party.
Political Fallout
The coal mine tragedy has intensified the political battle in Assam, with the Congress stepping up its campaign against the BJP government. Bhupen Bora’s statement and the planned statewide protests are expected to draw attention to alleged corruption and mismanagement in the state’s mining sector.
As the controversy unfolds, all eyes will be on the Assam government’s response to the allegations and demands for a thorough investigation into illegal mining practices.
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