Jharkhand’s Quest for Coal Mine Compensation Stirs Debate in Assembly

Finance Minister Dr. Rameshwar Oraon hints at legal action against Central Coalfields Limited for due compensation.

RANCHI – Dr. Rameshwar Oraon, Finance Minister of the Jharkhand government, recently shed light on a contentious issue during the Monsoon session of Vidhansabha.

Answering the queries of MLA Pradeep Yadav, he admitted the state government’s failed attempts till 2018 to secure compensation for the state’s land against the mining activities.

He pointed out that the Union Coal Ministry continually asserted their rights over the mines, leaving the state bereft of any compensation.

The Minister highlighted that while the state government owns the surface land, the central government holds rights over the sub-surface, indicating that compensation can be sought from the center.

In fact, Dr. Oraon suggested that a certificate case against central mining agencies, including Central Coalfields Limited (CCL), could be lodged if necessary.

Another solution put forth by the Minister involved voicing their concerns to the NITI Aayog.

The Minister shared that this matter was discussed at the Eastern Zonal Council meeting, convened by the Chief Minister, where the members concurred with Jharkhand’s stance.

In an encouraging development, the Central Government, through the Ministry of Coal, has since disbursed Rs 2500 crore to the state government, marking the first installment.

This gesture shows that the Centre acknowledges and accepts the state’s standpoint.

The Finance Minister referred to the drought situation last year, reminding the house of the central team’s two visits to assess the state.

He advised patience and urged the continuation of their demands.

However, Dr. Oraon clarified that halting coal supply wasn’t the solution, as it would adversely impact numerous states, their workers, and the royalty revenue.