Three Dead, Two Rescued After Coal Mine Collapse in West Bengal's Asansol

A coal mine collapse occurred on January 13 in an abandoned open-cast mine in Asansol, West Bengal, resulting in three deaths and two injuries. The victims were reportedly engaged in illegal coal extraction using hazardous rat-hole methods. Rescue operations involved local police, BCCL officials, and security forces. BJP MLA Ajay Poddar alleged a nexus between coal mafias, police, and central forces, while authorities have launched an investigation into the incident amid concerns over safety and illegal mining practices.