NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Meghalaya Coal Mine Blast

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India has initiated suo motu proceedings regarding the February 5 explosion at an illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya, which has resulted in a rising death toll of 30 and left several individuals trapped. The NHRC expressed concerns about potential human rights violations based on the news reports surrounding this incident. Consequently, it has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police of Meghalaya, demanding a comprehensive report within two weeks. This report is expected to detail the current status of the rescue operations, compensation plans for affected families, ongoing police investigations, and measures being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.