These statements from agents supplying crematorium coal form the basis of a troubling investigation. The findings raise serious concerns about public health and religious sensitivities. India’s incense stick industry valued at ₹10,000 to ₹12,000 crore, with Bihar alone accounting for ₹800 to ₹1,500 crore.
This investigation, Operation Coal Part-2, reveals how crematorium coal is allegedly entering this supply chain across at least five states.
Bihar Agents Sell Cremation Charcoal to Patna Eateries
The investigation began after reports indicated that, during a gas shortage, cremation ground coal redirected to hotels, restaurants, and street vendors across Bihar. To verify the claims, reporters posed as hotel and factory owners and traveled across 12 districts, including Patna, Gaya, Nalanda, Vaishali, Saran, and East and West Champaran.
What they found was not an isolated practice, but a well-organized operation. In addition to large-scale supply to food businesses, the investigation also uncovered a parallel network supplying raw materials to incense stick factories. Dedicated transport arrangements and multiple agents involved in this operation.
Deal at Bans Ghat: Agent Bittu’s disclosure
At Bans Ghat in Patna, the team met an agent named Bittu while posing as hotel operators. During negotiations, Bittu admitted that cremation coal is supplied not only for cooking but also to incense stick manufacturers.
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