Meghalaya Mine Disaster: 18 Dead in Illegal Coal Mine Explosion, Many Trapped

• A powerful explosion in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district killed 18 laborers, with many more feared trapped.
• The incident has reignited concerns about mine safety and the prevalence of illegal mining operations in the region.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma expressed sorrow, with Modi announcing financial aid and Sangma ordering a high-level inquiry.
• Preliminary investigations confirm the mine was operating illegally, leading to cases filed under various acts including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
• NDRF, SDRF, and special teams are conducting rescue operations, while financial assistance has been announced for victims' families by both central and state governments.