Shillong (Meghalaya), July 24: The Meghalaya High Court is currently hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Ranjit Chandra Goswami alleging illegal mining of limestone by Amrit Cement Industries Limited in the Jaintia Hills region. The court admitted the petition on February 19, last and directed the State to file a report.
The State’s report, filed on May 8 last, claimed there was no illegal mining by Amrit Cement Industries Limited. However, the petitioner denied the contents of the report, and the court allowed him to file a rejoinder affidavit. A surrejoinder by Amrit Cement Industries Limited is due by August 28 next.
The court has directed the State’s counsel to make submissions on the allegations, which will form the basis for passing necessary orders. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on August 1. Notably, the report was prepared and signed by senior officials, including the Forest department.
The Meghalaya High Court’s proceedings in this case are being closely watched, given the environmental implications of alleged illegal mining in the region.
