Shillong, Nov 8: Every November 8 is an unforgettable day for both Agnes Kharshiing and Amita Sangma
On that day in 2018, the duo were attacked for probing illegal coal mining and transportation by a pro-mining group led by Nidamon Chullet in East Jaintia Hills. Chullet was associated with the ruling NPP.
Six years into the incident, the activists are yet to get adequate compensation and justice.
The case is still pending in the sessions court in Khliehriat, East Jaintia Hills.
Agnes said on Saturday that hearings are held in the court.
“I thank God, my relatives and the prayers of the people who believe in God’s power.
I also thank Amita Sangma and my relatives and friends and also the media”, she said.
Agnes lost the sense of smell due to health complications following the brutal attack, while Amita has recurring health issues.
“While the real culprits are yet to be punished, it is a matter of concern that four poor drivers from outside the state were dragged into the case”, Amita said.
She also wondered as to what prevented the state government from providing adequate compensation though there is a provision.
Amita recollected that when Ampareen Lyngdoh was with the Congress and heading the Assembly committee on women issues, she had promised to pursue the plea to provide compensation.
The government did not want to hand over the case either to the CBI or for a probe by judicial commission.
Many illegal coal mining cases and transportation of coal were reported even after 2018 and the matter is being pursued by the BP Katakey commission and the High Court of Meghalaya .
