SHILLONG: The member of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Justice P.C. Ghosh on Friday expressed concern over the employment of children and young adults in rat-hole mines.

Ghosh also wanted a complete ban on rat-hole mining.

Speaking at the workshop on elimination of bonded and child labour at Yojana Bhavan, the NHRC member said considering the seriousness of the issue of child labour in the coal mines of the State, the workshop would help to create awareness and sensitise all stakeholders for the eradication of bonded and child labour system.

According to the NHRC member, besides the ecological impact of coal mines, numerous miners have lost their lives in rat hole mines during rainy season when water often floods the mines.

He observed that child labour is a matter concern in the state and hoped the people will be sensitised on the matter.

) Pointing to the significance of the workshop, he said the programme seeks to draw insights from intellectuals to pave the way towards curbing rat hole mining menace in the state.

Speaking about the situation surrounding the rat-hole mining, Ghosh said, “According to me, the rat-hole mines will have to be stopped. Deputy Chief Minister has specifically said that they are taking steps on the matter.”

Commenting on the rescue operations, he said the government must think about human rights in the state and follow the rules and regulations in the constitution and as well as human rights commission.