Union Coal Minister G. Kishan Reddy (file photo)
Jagran correspondent, Dhanbad. Union Coal and Mines Minister G. met the people affected by the gas leak in Rajput Basti of Kenduadih. There is intense anger and discussions in Dhanbad over Kishan Reddy not being found.
While the Union Minister, who was on Dhanbad tour, took a tough stand on illegal coal trade and corruption and warned of strict action against the mafia, the affected families are feeling neglected due to not visiting the Jharia fire and gas affected area.
The Union Minister participated in several official programs during his two-day visit. His main focus was said to be the review of Jharia Master Plan. It is noteworthy that the Rajput settlement of Kendua falls in the Jharia fire affected area and is included under the Jharia Master Plan. Despite this, the minister not meeting the incident site or the gas affected people is raising many questions.
It is noteworthy that so far two women have died in the carbon monoxide gas leakage incident in Kenduadih area, while more than 90 people are said to be affected. Voices have been raised from Dhanbad to Delhi regarding this serious matter and its echo was heard in the Parliament also. In such a situation, despite the visit of the Union Coal Minister, lack of communication with the victims became a cause of disappointment at the local level.
However, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy said in clear words that corruption is not acceptable under any circumstances and the ministry will work with complete transparency. He said that the Ministry is keeping a close watch on the illegal coal trade and soon strict action will be taken against the culprits. It is being said that the enforcement directorate (ED) and CBI have increased their activity in matters related to coal trade in Dhanbad. About 18 in the district
Raids have been conducted at various places and more than a dozen people are on the radar of various investigating agencies. These are said to include contractors associated with coal business, people with political patronage and some coal officials. Many important documents are being seized and examined. There is panic among the coal mafia due to the strict statements of the Union Minister.