Guwahati : Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Friday said his government would take strict action against those responsible for the coal mine explosion in East Jaintia Hills district that claimed at least 18 lives on Thursday, reiterating that illegal mining will not be tolerated in the state.

Sangma said two Cabinet ministers have been deputed to the blast site to assess the situation on the ground. They have been directed to coordinate with local authorities, review rescue operations, oversee relief measures, and ensure law and order in the area.

The Chief Minister said police have been instructed to initiate stringent legal action against all individuals involved in the illegal mining activity that led to the tragedy. Announcing relief measures, Sangma said the Meghalaya government will provide ?3 lakh as ex gratia to the families of each deceased worker.

Following the incident, the Assam government confirmed that three workers from the state were among those killed in the blast. Authorities in Assam and Meghalaya are coordinating closely to verify the identities of all victims and ensure timely assistance to affected families.