India, Jan. 29 -- Gauhati High Court seeks report rat-hole mining The Gauhati High Court has directed the Assam government to submit a detailed report regarding the steps taken to curb the practice of rat-hole mining in the state. The court issued this order following a public interest litigation (PIL) and has instructed authorities to respond to the notice by February 7, 2025.

The court has sought replies from several key government departments, including the Chief Secretary's Office, the Mines and Minerals Department, the Environment and Forest Department, and others. It has also requested the latest status on the government's actions to stop the illegal mining practices, particularly in the Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao districts.

The...