NEW DELHI

At least 18 people were killed when a blast occurred at a coal mine in Meghalaya state in India, officials said Thursday.

“A dynamite explosion had occurred at an illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills. This happened today at around 11 am. As per the current reports, about 18 people are dead because of this blast,” Chief Minister of the state Conrad Sangma told reporters.

He said one person was injured and has been taken to a hospital, and authorities, including police, are present at the site.

Sangma wrote on US social media company X that the government has ordered a "comprehensive inquiry" into the accident.

“Accountability will be fixed, and those responsible will face strict legal action. There will be no compromise when it comes to the safety of lives,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled with the victims.

“Pained by the mishap in East Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest,” he said, while announcing compensation to the next of kin for each of the deceased and injured.