Gaurav Gogoi questions Assam's true 'Syndicate Raja' after ED raids

Guwahati

Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi criticized Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) uncovered an illegal coal empire in Assam, alleging that illegal mining had been happening under Sarma’s watch. Gogoi’s statement followed the ED’s raid on 15 locations in Assam and Meghalaya as part of a money laundering investigation linked to illicit coal mining and the operation of coke plants.

Gogoi shared his findings on social media, revealing that the ED had seized Rs 1.58 crore in cash, discovered fake invoices, and confirmed that 1,200 tonnes of illegal coal were being extracted daily from areas like Margherita, Jogighopa, and Guwahati. He accused the coal mafia of paying large sums to clear borders and falsely labeling illegal mining as legal.

He further questioned the government's role in protecting the syndicate behind the operation, asking, Who is Assam’s real 'Syndicate Raja'? Gogoi called for accountability, urging the state government to answer for the scandal.

The ED's investigation revealed that despite a mining ban in Meghalaya, illegal rat-hole mining was rampant, with coal being transported across borders into Assam. The agency found that the coal was then distributed to industries like cement manufacturing and illegal coke plants. The syndicate involved was reportedly charging hefty commissions for clearing coal trucks at the border. Gogoi demanded that the Chief Minister stop denying the truth and address the matter directly.