NTPC Coal Mining In Jharkhand : Complaint Regarding Death Of Two Birhor Tribals Sent To Ministry Of Tribal Affairs

The complaint filed by Durga Munda regarding the death of two members of the Birhor tribe highlights serious concerns over the adverse effects of mining operations in the region. He has written to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the Director General of Police (DGP) of Jharkhand, seeking legal action against the parties involved, including NTPC’s Mine Developer and Operator (MDO) Rithwik-AMR Consortium and the district administration.

Key Points from the Complaint:

1.Background of the Incident:

The complaint is regarding the death of Kirani Birhor (a minor) and Bahadur alias Durga Birhor, both from the Birhor community. Their deaths are allegedly linked to mining activities being conducted near their settlement by the Rithwik-AMR Consortium for NTPC’s Chatti Bariatu coal project in Keredari block, Hazaribagh district.

2. Allegations Against Local Authorities:

Durga Munda has raised questions on the role of local administration officials, including the District Mining Officer, Regional Officer of the Pollution Control Board, Keredari Circle Officer, and the Police Station In-charge. He claims that these officials acted suspiciously and failed to ensure the safety and health of the Birhor community.

3. Investigation Committee’s Report:

A five-member investigation team under the chairmanship of the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) confirmed that mining and transportation activities in the area are generating significant dust particles, creating severe air pollution and health hazards. The report also highlighted the risk of respiratory and other diseases among residents of Birhor Tola. The committee recommended halting mining operations around Birhor Tola until the affected families are rehabilitated elsewhere. However, despite these findings, mining operations continued unabated.

4. Lack of Post-Mortem and Legal Procedures:

It is alleged that the district administration did not conduct a post-mortem of the deceased individuals under Section 174(3) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, which is mandatory to ascertain the cause of death. This omission suggests an attempt to conceal the true reasons for the deaths and protect the culprits.

5. Violation of Safety and Environmental Regulations:

Durga Munda’s complaint points out that mining activities were started without addressing safety and environmental standards. The administration’s negligence in settling the community elsewhere, despite repeated requests and potential hazards, reflects a disregard for the safety and well-being of the almost-extinct Birhor tribal community.

6. Demands and Legal Action:

Durga Munda has called for immediate legal action against NTPC, its MDO, and the involved local administration officials. He has requested the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the DGP to ensure accountability and justice for the affected community, stressing that any negligence in protecting tribal rights and safety must be addressed comprehensively.

If pursued diligently, may lead to further investigations and necessary legal steps to safeguard the rights and well-being of vulnerable tribal communities in mining areas, says the complainant.

KIRNI BIRHOR

BAHADUR BIRHOR

The letter written to the Ministry of Tribal Affairs by Durga Munda is given below for the benefit of the viewers of www.indianpsu.com –