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Judgment
H.S. Thangkhiew, J
As directed by the order dated 05.02.2026, Shri Manish Kumar, Deputy Commissioner, East Jaintia Hills District and Shri Vikash Kumar, Superintendent of Police, East Jaintia Hills District are present in Court today.
A Status Report with regard to the steps taken after the blast at Thangsko has been placed before this Court, and what has been highlighted is the shortage of personnel, apart from the steps taken of registering a case and arrest of 2(two) persons. This Court at this stage will not pass any detailed orders but directs for a detailed report to be filed within 10(ten) days as to the further steps taken in the entire District with regard to the illegal mining sites, seizure of illegal mining equipment and arrest of persons involved in the illegal Rat-hole mining, especially at Mynsngat-Thangsko. Further orders will be passed with regard to the award of further compensation, after the report is received. In the detailed report, the investigation carried out with regard to the earlier incident that occurred on 14.01.2026 at Thangsko, resulting in the death of a labourer from Assam, should also be included.
A Thirty Sixth Interim Report has also been filed by Hon’ble Mr. Justice B.P. Katakey Committee, who has visited the accident site at Mynsngat-Thangsko along with photographs and information received relating to casualties in the incident. Photographs have also been annexed to show that there has been rampant mining in adjoining areas, such as Mopala and Sakhain Villages, as well as in the other nearby areas, it appears with impunity to the orders of the Court and the Rule of Law.
The Report is distressing and reflects the dereliction in the discharge of duties by the authorities concerned. This Court makes it clear that accountability will be fixed, and if necessary further orders will be passed for institution of a proper investigation and inquiry, by an independent or central agency.
A copy of the Thirty Sixth Interim Report of Hon’ble Mr. Justice B.P. Katakey Committee be given to the learned Advocate General.
The personal appearance of the Deputy Commissioner is dispensed with for the time being, the Superintendent of Police to remain present on the next date.
List this matter on 19.02.2026.