SHILLONG, JUL 13: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday assured stern action against those responsible for the Lapalang incident that claimed the lives of five workers, and said the government is examining ways to extend support to the bereaved families.
Speaking to reporters, Sangma said rules had been in place and violations would not be condoned.
“Action will be taken against those who are doing this. There were rules and certain things were prohibited. Individuals who are not following those prohibitions are breaking the law, breaking the rule, appropriate action will be taken against them,” Sangma said.
He said the victims came from economically weaker backgrounds, and the government was looking at options for financial assistance.
“We are examining, there are some requirements because they are all from very economically weaker sections of the society, those who passed away. Therefore, we are looking at ways in which we can give some support so I am examining,” he said.
Sangma added that he had received representations from party workers seeking help for the families.
“I have received a letter yesterday from some of the NPP party members, the Nongthymmai unit…and even from other units from different constituencies. So all the constituency party units have written to me,” he said.
The Chief Minister noted that existing disaster management norms do not cover such accidents, but assured that a decision would be taken considering the background of the victims.
“The problem is that in disaster management, there is no provision to support accidents which happened like this. But as I said because they are from poor backgrounds I will examine the matter and I will take a decision,” Sangma said.
Five workers died due to generator fume inhalation while pumping water from a borewell at Lapalang, Shillong.
