Shillong, Feb 17: The opposition VPP legislator Ardent Basaiawmoit on Tuesday deplored the use of ‘sub judice” by the government to avoid critical questions on many issues, including illegal coal mining.
Raising a point of order, Basaiawmoit by the executive to avoid debate.
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Nongkrem MLA argued that the term sub judice is repeatedly used by the executive to avoid debate.
“As a legislature, we have freedom of speech to discuss the issues. Even the courts themselves have held that legislative discussion is not barred just because a matter is pending before them,
“he said.
“We know we cannot discuss guilt or innocence, judicial findings — but we can discuss administrative failure and policy lapses so that they can be prevented. The executive should not hide behind this provision of sub judice.”
Basaiawmoit wanted the members to be allowed to deliberate on the Mynsngat-Thangsko coal mine blast.
“The people of the state want to know what led to the unfortunate incident and the matter surrounding illegal coal mining in the state.”
Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma supported the demand, citing Basaiawmoit’s submission very relevant.
According to the government, the mine tragedy incident should be treated separately, and not clubbed with a broader PIL.
“This particular instant case, and the responsibility of the authorities to take cognizance… should have been separately tried by the government. Otherwise, any incident of illegality will be clubbed in one PIL, and it would be taken as a modus operandi to create delay to justice.”
The Speaker, however, the issue. “We will not discuss this further, as I have taken my decision,” he said, bringing the matter to a close.
