Support Grows for Conrad's Mining Initiative Amid JHADC Concerns

Shillong, India Jul 13, 2026 ALN: Two organizations on Sunday welcomed Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma’s intervention with the Centre regarding coal mining, supporting his push for delegation of powers under Section 26 of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. This move aims to facilitate the resumption of scientific coal mining while emphasizing the need to protect constitutional safeguards and expedite the process.

The Jaintia Students Movement (JSM) expressed its support for the chief minister’s request to the Centre for delegation of powers under Section 26 to regulate coal mining in the Scheduled Areas. However, they insisted that this move must not undermine the constitutional powers of the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC).

JSM president Dapmain Shylla stated that the delegation of powers under Section 26 is the most practical solution to revive regulated coal mining, protecting the livelihoods of thousands of families dependent on the sector in Jaintia Hills. He emphasized that any powers delegated by the Centre should not dilute the authority of the JHADC under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.

The Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution provides for the administration of tribal areas in the northeastern states, including , and grants autonomy to local councils like the JHADC. This autonomy is crucial for the preservation of the tribal identity, culture, and land rights of indigenous communities. The JHADC has a significant role in managing resources, ensuring that local interests are prioritized. The JSM's insistence on maintaining the JHADC's authority highlights the importance of local governance in the context of resource management.

Shylla suggested that once powers are delegated, the state government should draft the proposed legislation in consultation with the JHADC. He added that the draft law should subsequently be passed by the Assembly and receive the Governor’s assent to give it full legal effect. This legislative process is vital to ensure that the concerns of local communities are adequately addressed and that the laws reflect the unique socio-economic context of the Jaintia Hills.

According to him, a collaborative approach between the state government and the JHADC will ensure that the legislation addresses the state’s developmental needs while safeguarding the traditional rights, customs, and land ownership of the tribal people as guaranteed under the Sixth Schedule. This collaboration is also essential for fostering trust between the government and the local populace, which has often been strained due to past conflicts over resource management.

While the JSM backed the chief minister’s demand, it opposed any move to bypass the JHADC in framing laws applicable to the Scheduled Areas, asserting that such legislation should be drafted jointly by the state government and the council. This stance reflects a broader concern among indigenous groups about the potential for external influences to undermine local governance structures and the rights of tribal communities.

The student body emphasized that the new legislation should provide for sustainable mining practices, adequate environmental safeguards, and protection of the rights of landowners and workers. Shylla urged the state government to treat the JHADC as an equal partner in the process, stating that only such an approach would result in a law acceptable to the people of Jaintia Hills. The emphasis on sustainability and environmental protection is particularly pertinent given the history of unregulated mining practices in the region, which have led to significant ecological degradation.

Meanwhile, the State Co-ordination Committee of Coal Owners, Miners, Exporters & Dealers’ Forum expressed gratitude to the chief minister for his intervention on the coal mining issue, stating that his efforts have opened a new avenue for the resumption of scientific coal mining. This statement underscores the economic stakes involved in the coal mining sector, which has been a critical source of livelihood for many families in the region.

In a statement, Forum chairman Sonny L. Khyriem mentioned that the organization had met with Conrad on June 22 and submitted a detailed memorandum along with a presentation outlining proposals for restarting small-scale underground scientific coal mining in the state. This proactive approach by the Forum indicates a strong desire among stakeholders to engage constructively with the government to find a viable path forward.

Khyriem noted that the chief minister acted promptly on the matter and subsequently raised the issue during his recent meeting with the Union Minister of Coal and Mines in New Delhi. According to the Forum, the union minister assured that a joint committee comprising representatives of the Centre and the State Government would be constituted to examine the way forward for resuming coal mining. The formation of such a committee is a crucial step, as it signifies a commitment to dialogue and collaborative problem-solving between various levels of government.

Describing the development as a significant breakthrough, Khyriem stated that Conrad’s intervention had “paved a new path” towards restarting coal mining and expressed hope that the process would be expedited. The optimism expressed by Khyriem reflects a broader sentiment among coal stakeholders who have been adversely affected by the mining ban, which has led to economic hardships for many families reliant on this sector.

He expressed optimism that these efforts would soon translate into concrete action, bringing much-needed relief and renewed hope to thousands of coal owners, miners, and workers affected by the prolonged coal mining impasse. The Forum also acknowledged the support extended by Deputy Chief Ministers Prestone Tynsong and Sniawbhalang Dhar, as well as legislators Kyrmen Shylla, Gabriel Wahlang, Santa Mary Shylla, and Pius Marwein. It further thanked former legislators Gigur Myrthong, Shitlang Pale, and Justin Dkhar for their continued support to the cause of coal miners.

The ongoing discussions around coal mining in highlight the complex interplay between economic development, environmental sustainability, and the rights of indigenous communities. As the state government navigates these challenges, the outcomes of the proposed legislative changes and the establishment of the joint committee will be closely watched by various stakeholders, including environmental activists, local communities, and industry representatives. The implications of these developments could shape the future of resource management and governance in the region for years to come.