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

• An explosion in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills has killed at least 18 laborers.
• Meghalaya Police DG I Nongrang confirmed 16 bodies recovered, with fears that more laborers are trapped inside.
• The incident occurred on Thursday morning in the Thangsku area during illegal coal extraction.
• Chief Minister Conrad S Sangma expressed condolences and vowed action against those responsible for negligence.
• PM Narendra Modi announced Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia for deceased families and Rs 50,000 for the injured; Union Home Minister Amit Shah and President Droupadi Murmu also expressed grief.