Shillong : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has said it will await the findings of the Judicial Inquiry Commission investigating the Mynsngat–Thangsko coal mine explosion that claimed more than 30 lives.
Party chief spokesperson M. Kharkrang stated that the government has already taken necessary steps, including registering a case, making arrests, and setting up the inquiry commission.
“The government has ultimately come up and admitted that these things have happened, and I think it is fair for us to wait for the investigation to complete,” Kharkrang said.
He emphasized that the commission’s terms of reference will play a crucial role in determining the scope and direction of the investigation.
Kharkrang also highlighted the Centre’s swift response following the tragedy. Narendra Modi and Amit Shah reportedly contacted Conrad Sangma to gather details about the incident. The Prime Minister also announced ex gratia assistance for the victims’ families prior to the state government’s announcement.
Responding to demands for the Chief Minister to resign from the mining portfolio, Kharkrang dismissed the calls.
“You cannot have a Chief Minister quitting for everything that happens. Action has been taken by the government — that is more important than quitting,” he said.
The explosion at the coal mine in East Jaintia Hills has triggered widespread concern and renewed debate over illegal mining and safety regulations in Meghalaya.