JAMMU, Oct 23: Senior National Conference leader Rajesh Gupta has called for an impartial investigation into allegations of illegal mining in Jammu and Reasi, questioning the effectiveness of the administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and demanding accountability in the Geology and Mining Department.
Gupta said allegations of unauthorised stone crushers operating near the Fourth Bridge, downstream of Bhagwati Nagar, Jammu, and suspected irregularities in mining and dredging activities at Salal Dam in Reasi warrant immediate attention from the competent authorities.
He pointed out that locals have alleged that four to six stone crushers near Bhagwati Nagar may be operating without the necessary legal documentation, with mining-related activities allegedly continuing under the cover of darkness. He questioned how such activities could persist so close to the department’s Directorate at Bahu Plaza without effective intervention, if the allegations prove correct.
Raising concerns over Salal Dam dredging operations, Gupta called for verification of claims that approximately 500 dumper loads of extracted material are transported daily from the area. He demanded scrutiny of official permissions, extraction quantities, transportation records, royalty payments and revenue deposited in the government treasury. Gupta also called for examination of the role of Reasi District Mineral Officer Mohd. Imtiaz, stressing that responsibility must be determined strictly on the basis of documentary evidence and an impartial inquiry.
He urged the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to examine electronic permits, A-Forms, e-challans, royalty receipts, departmental portal records, inspection reports and vehicle movement details to establish whether any violations occurred and whether government revenue was lost. Questioning the supervisory mechanism within the department, Gupta said the Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, must ensure effective monitoring and transparent enforcement of mining regulations. He added that the government should consider a CBI investigation if warranted by the evidence and applicable legal procedures.