Shillong: The Meghalaya government has halted its reported plan to remove Justice (retired) BP Katakey from the High Court of Meghalaya's one-man committee, following criticism from various political parties and pressure groups.

Reports stated that no plea has been filed for Katakey's removal, and the committee's purpose has been analyzed.

The committee, headed by Justice Katakey, has made significant suggestions on auctioning coal and preventing illegal mining and supply. The government has acknowledged trying to adhere to directives but admitted that some loose ends need to be tied.

Opposition to Justice Katakey's removal came from the VPP, BJP, and several groups from Garo Hills. Meanwhile, the committee is investigating four to five complaints of illegal coal mining and transportation.

Justice Katakey's report had earlier exposed the extent of Meghalaya's illegal coal mining, highlighting the need for stricter regulations. The Meghalaya High Court had also directed the state government to implement the recommendations made by Justice Katakey to curb illegal coal mining.