Rights group demands action against illegal coal mining in Assam

The Tinsukia District Committee of the International Human Rights Council (IHRC) has escalated calls for authorities to crack down on unauthorised coal mining activities in the Ledo area of Assam. The committee has demanded that all documentation connected to the alleged illegal mining operations be thoroughly examined and scrutinised by relevant government agencies.

In addition to document review, the IHRC has issued a 72-hour ultimatum for the closure of illegal transportation routes believed to be facilitating the movement of coal extracted from unauthorised mines. The committee contends that these illicit channels circumvent regulatory oversight and enable the unrestricted exploitation of natural resources.

The directive comes as concerns mount over environmental degradation and regulatory violations in the region. Illegal coal mining operations have long been flagged by civil society groups as a source of ecological damage and economic leakage in coal-rich districts of Northeast India.

The IHRC's intervention underscores mounting pressure on state authorities to enforce existing mining regulations more rigorously. Officials in Assam have yet to respond to the specific demands outlined by the rights body.