A coal sector organisation in East Jaintia Hills has announced plans to begin an indefinite hunger strike next month, saying thousands of families dependent on mining-related livelihoods continue to face prolonged hardship.
KHLIEHRIAT: The Jaintia Coal Owners, Miners, Suppliers and Workers Association (JCOMSWA) has sought permission from the district administration to hold an indefinite hunger strike in Khliehriat from June 1.
The proposed protest is expected to take place near the office of the Deputy Commissioner in East Jaintia Hills beginning at 10 am.
According to a letter submitted by JCOMSWA president Marshall S.B. Biam and general secretary Khrawbor Rynkhlem, the agitation is being organised to highlight issues affecting coal owners, miners, transporters, suppliers and workers linked to the coal sector in the district.
The association said the protest would be conducted peacefully and aimed at drawing the attention of authorities to livelihood-related concerns faced by families dependent on coal-related activities.
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JCOMSWA also stated that it would cooperate with district authorities and law enforcement agencies during the programme.
The development comes amid continuing debate surrounding coal mining, transportation and employment concerns in Meghalaya’s coal-producing belt, particularly in East Jaintia Hills where mining remains closely tied to the local economy.
