The recent tragedy in Nagaland, where six migrant workers lost their lives in an illegal “rat-hole” coal mine, throws a harsh spotlight on a deeply troubling practice. While this method of extraction was banned in other parts of the country, Nagaland clings to a flawed system resulting in human fatalities, environmental degradation, and substantial revenue loss. Urgent remedial measures are imperative to address this grave situation.
Firstly, the charade of “legal” rat-hole mining must end. The unique land-holding system in Nagaland, under Article 371A of the Constitution of India, no doubt places land and natural resources exclusively in the hands of the people and not the state. However, a lack of oversight has led to a proliferation of illegal rat-hole mining activities. The Nagaland Coal Policy’s loopholes, allowing individuals with minimal oversight, are an open invitation to disaster. The state government must categorically ban this inherently dangerous practice, prioritizing the safety and well-being of its citizens and workers.
Secondly, addressing the rampant illegality requires a multi-pronged approach. The Government Accounting Standards Advisory Board (GASAB) audit’s scathing denunciation of the Geology & Mining Department exposes glaring weaknesses in regulation and revenue collection. The absence of cross-verification mechanisms between government departments further compounds the problem. The state government’s commitment to share royalties with local village councils, as outlined in the Nagaland Coal Policy, must be upheld, and funds collected from mining taxes should be used to benefit affected communities through District Mineral Foundations. Robust anti-trafficking measures, including stricter border control and collaboration with NGOs, are vital.
In addition, the state must invest in technology and infrastructure to monitor and regulate coal extraction effectively. The erection of Mineral Check gates, mobile check gates, and the installation of Weigh Bridges within the extraction zone and boundaries of Nagaland are critical to preventing illegal transportation and ensuring accurate royalty collection. Furthermore, ensuring fair wages and decent working conditions for all miners, irrespective of their origin, is a moral imperative.
Further, environmental concerns cannot be ignored. Rat-hole mining’s devastating impact on land, water, and air quality necessitates stricter environmental regulations and enforcement.
Sustainable and responsible mining practices must be prioritized, ensuring long-term ecological well-being.
Finally, transparency and accountability are paramount. The state government must make public all mining-related data, including licenses granted, royalties collected, and safety inspections conducted. Regular independent audits and public hearings can ensure transparency and hold authorities accountable.
The Government of Nagaland must realize the human cost of inaction. It is time for the Nagaland government to break free from the shackles of vested interests and prioritize the safety, well-being, and environment over short-term gains.
This editorial aims to spark a crucial conversation and demand concrete action. The future of Nagaland’s coal mining industry rests on the choices made today. Let us choose wisely, choosing life, sustainability, and justice over profit and exploitation.
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