The Meghalaya High Court has directed the state government to seek assistance from the Assam Police in apprehending the "kingpins" involved in the illegal coal mining activities in the state. During the hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on Tuesday, the full bench, led by Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee, noted that the miners operating in the state are small-time operators, while the entire operation is controlled by external kingpins.

The court previously suggested that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) should conduct an investigation into the illegal activities due to the involvement of external operators. To address the issue seriously, the court ordered the state police to collaborate with the Assam Police and launch a joint operation to not only arrest the illegal activities but also prevent the exploitation of small miners in the state by operators from outside.

Regarding the loss of livelihood for miners due to the ban on illegal mining, the bench stated that it is the responsibility of the state government to provide alternative sources of income. The court also criticized the state for its inaction in disposing of previously illegally-mined coal, leading to the dumping of freshly-mined coal on roadsides, which was falsely passed off as previously-mined coal. The court noted the proliferation of coke-oven plants throughout the state, indicating rampant transportation of illegally-mined coal

The court further highlighted the state's claim that scientific mining of coal is yet to commence, despite feasibility studies and similar activities possibly already being conducted. Meanwhile, Justice (retired) BP Katakey visited the illegal coal mining area of Nongalbibra in South Garo Hills after receiving complaints about the illegal mining activities.