January 7, 2025: In a dramatic turn of events, Punish Nunisa has been arrested in connection with the tragic illegal mining disaster that occurred in Umrangso, Dima Hasao district, where at least 35 workers remain trapped underground. The incident, which took place at a coal mine operated under the name of Kanika Hojai, has raised serious concerns about illegal mining operations in the region.
The police have registered an FIR at the Umrangso Police Station under Case No: 02/2025, citing violations of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. Specific charges include Sections 3(5)/105 BNS and Section 21(1), related to the catastrophic flooding at the mine. Authorities confirmed that Punish Nunisa was in charge of the mining operations on behalf of Kanika Hojai, who remains a central figure in the investigation.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took to social media to comment on the arrest, expressing his commitment to addressing the illegal mining issue in the state.
The tragedy unfolded when floodwaters inundated a rathole mine, a hazardous and illegal mining method banned in India. The flood, which reached a staggering depth of 100 feet, has trapped at least 35 workers, with only 17 being rescued so far. Rescue operations have been severely hampered by the depth of the flooding.
The Indian Army, along with specialized engineers, divers, and medical teams, has been deployed to lead the ongoing rescue mission. Despite two failed rescue attempts, the Army's Engineer Task Force continues to work tirelessly, with additional support from deep-water divers arriving from Visakhapatnam to assist with the mission.
Allegations have surfaced suggesting that the full scale of the disaster may have been concealed in the early stages. It is reported that at least three workers were deliberately hidden by mining authorities in an effort to downplay the severity of the situation.
As the rescue efforts continue, the incident has sparked growing calls for stricter enforcement of mining laws and a full investigation into the practices that allowed such a dangerous and illegal operation to take place. The involvement of influential political figures and the apparent cover-up of the disaster have added to the mounting pressure on the Assam government to hold those responsible accountable.