Tensions escalated in Malu Gaon, Ledo, as hundreds of Tangsa community members staged a mass protest on Saturday against the alleged forceful dumping of coal waste by Northeastern Coalfields Coal India Ltd (NEC CIL) at Tikak Colliery. Protesters blocked roads and demanded an immediate halt to the dumping, claiming that the coal waste posed serious environmental and health risks.
Residents alleged that NEC CIL had been illegally dumping coal waste near their village, contaminating water sources and damaging agricultural land. The Tangsa community, which depends on farming, expressed concerns over their livelihoods being destroyed due to pollution from the coal waste. Protesters held banners and chanted slogans, calling for urgent government intervention.
Community leaders stated that NEC CIL had ignored repeated appeals to stop the dumping. They accused the company of encroaching on their land and violating environmental norms. One protester said that coal dust was affecting their health, causing respiratory issues among children and elderly residents. The villagers emphasized that they would not back down until the dumping ceased permanently.
Authorities arrived at the protest site to de-escalate tensions. Officials from the district administration assured residents that they would investigate the allegations and take necessary action. However, the villagers remained firm, demanding written assurances from both the administration and NEC CIL.
Environmental activists supported the protest, highlighting the long-term damage caused by coal waste. They warned that continuous dumping would lead to deforestation, soil degradation, and water contamination. Experts emphasized that coal waste contains toxic heavy metals that can seep into groundwater, posing severe health risks.
Local leaders criticized NEC CIL for prioritizing business interests over community welfare. They urged the company to adopt sustainable waste disposal methods instead of dumping coal residues in residential areas. Some leaders threatened legal action if NEC CIL failed to comply with environmental regulations.
NEC CIL officials denied any wrongdoing and claimed that the company followed all necessary guidelines. They argued that the waste disposal process adhered to industry standards and did not harm the environment. However, villagers dismissed these claims and accused the company of negligence.
The protest in Malu Gaon is part of a larger movement against unchecked industrial pollution in Assam’s coal-mining regions. Activists pointed out that similar protests had occurred in the past, yet authorities failed to implement strict environmental safeguards. They called for stronger policies to regulate coal mining activities and protect indigenous communities.
Residents vowed to continue their agitation until NEC CIL stopped the forced dumping. They demanded that the government intervene and relocate coal waste disposal sites away from populated areas. As the standoff continued, pressure mounted on authorities to address the grievances of the Tangsa community before the situation escalated further.
