Guwahati: Senior district officials from East Jaintia Hills appeared before the Meghalaya High Court on Monday in connection with the February 5 explosion at an illegal coal mine that claimed 27 lives, as scrutiny of official action intensified.
The deputy commissioner and the superintendent of police were summoned after the court took cognisance of a media report on the blast and sought a personal briefing on the measures taken since the incident.
Superintendent of Police Vikash Kumar said a first information report has now been registered in relation to the explosion. He noted that the High Court had directed compliance, prompting their personal appearance. Citing the ongoing proceedings, he added that, as the matter is sub judice, detailed comments could not be made at this stage but assured that the investigation would proceed according to law.
Police confirmed that search, rescue, and investigative operations continue at the site. No new bodies were recovered on Sunday or Monday. Arrests have already been made, and authorities said the investigation is progressing in the right direction and will be carried through to its logical conclusion.
Teams from the National Disaster Response Force, the State Disaster Response Force, and specialised rescue units remain deployed. Officials said further operations will depend on an assessment of the terrain and prevailing conditions.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has announced a judicial inquiry into the tragedy. Two alleged mine owners have been arrested, while a third remains absconding.