The Tinsukia District Committee of the International Human Rights Council (IHRC) has issued a forceful appeal for the immediate resumption of coal mining in Margherita.
In a press release on July 12, the IHRC warned that the continued closure of coal operations by Coal India Limited (CIL) threatens to push the local economy into deeper crisis.
The group has given CIL and relevant authorities a seven-day deadline to restore mining activities or face public demonstrations and broader protests.
Read about Coal India Ltd. operations on the official site.
Margherita’s Economic Lifeline at Stake
Margherita, in Assam’s Tinsukia district, has long depended on coal mining as a primary economic driver.
Thousands of families rely on direct and indirect employment linked to coal operations run by Northeastern Coalfields, a subsidiary of CIL.
With operations halted for months over environmental concerns and regulatory hurdles, the region has been facing growing financial hardship.
Local businesses have reported plummeting sales, and daily wage workers remain idle, worsening the socio-economic distress.
IHRC Highlights Humanitarian Crisis
In its statement, the IHRC stressed that livelihoods in Margherita are in jeopardy.
A spokesperson said:
“If the government and Coal India fail to act, thousands of workers and their families will sink into poverty. It’s not just an economic issue but a human rights concern.”
The IHRC also pointed out that prolonged inactivity could force skilled workers to migrate in search of work, further weakening the local economy.
They demanded immediate intervention to secure workers’ rights and ensure sustainable mining practices.
Coal India Faces Operational Challenges
While pressure mounts for the resumption of coal mining in Margherita, Coal India Limited has cited regulatory and environmental clearances as primary obstacles.
Officials explained that strict guidelines under environmental laws have delayed approvals for mining activities.
A senior CIL representative said:
“We are working with state and central authorities to ensure compliance with all environmental and safety norms. But these processes take time.”
Despite the reassurances, frustration among local stakeholders continues to grow as unemployment deepens.
Community Voices Growing Restless
Residents of Margherita expressed mixed feelings over the ongoing standoff.
While many agree that environmental protection is crucial, they argue that solutions must balance ecological concerns with economic survival.
A coal worker shared his plight:
“We understand the environment is important. But what about our families? Without work, how will we eat?”
Small businesses, transporters, and local markets linked to coal operations have also suffered steep losses.
A tea stall owner near the NEC office said:
“When the mines shut down, my business dropped by half. People have no money to spend.”
Calls for Sustainable Mining Solutions
Experts believe that sustainable mining solutions could resolve the standoff.
Environmentalists suggest adopting modern mining techniques that reduce ecological damage while preserving jobs.
An environmental activist said:
“There’s a middle path. Technology can reduce emissions and waste. We should not sacrifice entire communities for environmental goals.”
Political and Economic Implications
The issue carries significant political weight in Assam.
Local leaders, including MLAs from Tinsukia and Margherita, have urged the state government to mediate and speed up clearances.
An MLA from the region stated:
“This is a crisis. The government must act swiftly to resume operations and protect workers.”
Political observers believe the matter could influence voter sentiment in the upcoming elections if left unresolved.
IHRC Warns of Protest Action
With tensions rising, the IHRC’s warning signals potential for public agitation if authorities fail to respond within the given timeline.
They announced plans to organize peaceful protests across Tinsukia if coal operations do not restart.
Residents and workers are preparing for demonstrations, hoping their collective voice will compel swift action.
A union leader summed up the local sentiment:
“We don’t want conflict. We want our work and our dignity back.”
The coming week could prove decisive for the resumption of coal mining in Margherita, as pressure mounts on CIL and government agencies to break the deadlock and rescue the region’s economy from prolonged stagnation.