Guwahati, April 28 -- Following a major crackdown by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on rampant and unsafe coal mining in Meghalaya's South Garo Hills, the Voice of the People Party (VPP) on Sunday urged the agency to expand its operations to other coal-producing districts in the state.

VPP MP Ricky J Syngkon, who had raised concerns over illegal mining in Parliament, called on the Meghalaya government to show courage and address the situation decisively. "The ED must conduct similar operations in other coal belts like Jaintia Hills and West Khasi Hills, where such mining is also happening," Syngkon said.

The ED confirmed that illegal rat-hole mining, banned by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2014, continues unchecked in the state...