A labour couple lost their lives when an \”illegal coal mine\” caved in. The police have dismissed the claims of it being an illegal coal mine. The terrain is rich with coal, and villagers often extract it themselves. State Congress unit president Jeetu Patwari criticised the government on social media through his X handle accusing them of emboldening the mafia through inaction. The victims have been identified as Omkar Yadav and Parvati Yadav, and their bodies were sent for post-mortem at the government hospital in Budhar, Shahdol district. Both bodies were retrieved with the aid of an earthmoving machine, working late into the night. Reports suggest that more labourers might be trapped in the debris, with allegations that mine owners attempted to suppress the incident. However, police sources assured IANS that no other persons are trapped, and a proper investigation is underway. For confidential support call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org for details. In the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255.
