In a startling development, a mine worker earlier presumed dead in a Meghalaya mine explosion has returned home alive, days after his family performed his last rites. The incident has left local authorities and residents stunned. The man, identified as Shyambabu, belongs to the Ratabari police station area in Assam’s Sribhumi district. His unexpected return has raised serious questions about the identification process. Officials are now reviewing the circumstances surrounding the case.

Shyambabu was among 31 workers believed to have died in a devastating explosion at an illegal rat-hole coal mine in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills. The blast occurred on February 5 in the remote Thangsku area of Mynsngat village. Initial reports suggested the explosion was triggered by the use of dynamite inside the unauthorized mine. Rescue teams had launched extensive search operations following the incident. Families of the missing workers were informed based on preliminary assessments.

On February 9, authorities officially called off the search and rescue mission after concluding that no survivors were likely to be found. Based on this assessment, Shyambabu’s family was informed of his presumed death. His last rites were subsequently performed in his native village. The family had been mourning his loss for days. The situation took a dramatic turn when he unexpectedly walked back home.

Also Read: Two Owners Arrested in Meghalaya After Rat-Hole Coal Mine Blast Kills 18 Workers

According to local sources, Shyambabu returned to his village three days after the funeral rites were completed. His sudden appearance shocked relatives and neighbors who had believed he had perished in the blast. Officials are now trying to determine how the misidentification occurred. Questions have also emerged about the accuracy of the casualty verification process. Authorities are expected to conduct a detailed inquiry.

The incident has once again drawn attention to the dangers of illegal rat-hole mining in Meghalaya. Such operations have repeatedly been linked to fatal accidents and regulatory violations. Safety experts have long warned about poor oversight and hazardous working conditions in these mines. The latest confusion over victim identification has added another layer of concern. Calls for stricter enforcement are likely to intensify.

Meanwhile, officials said further verification and investigation are underway to establish the full sequence of events. Authorities are also working to confirm the identities of the remaining victims from the February 5 explosion. The case has triggered both relief and confusion in the affected communities. For Shyambabu’s family, the episode has turned grief into disbelief. The administration is expected to issue a detailed clarification soon.

Also Read: Coal Mine Explosion: Death Toll Rises to 18 at Illegal Rat-Hole Coal Mine in East Jaintia Hills