The incident in Vikasnagar, in which a constable was run over by a tractor carrying illegally mined material has once again raised questions about the continued activities of the mining mafia in the state. The Congress members point out that the Mining Vigilance Cell, which was formed during the term of the Congress state government and continued to work till the BJP formed its government. This cell became defunct after the current government assumed office in the state, they allege.
MLA and the deputy leader of Congress in Vidhan Sabha, Karan Mahra said, “This incident though unfortunate is not surprising, given that similar hints were found in a sting operation earlier this year. In those videos it was clear that senior officials were being asked to watch over the JCBs mining on river banks. During the time of the Congress government, a mining vigilance cell was set up under the supervision of IPS officer Sanjay Gunjyal. Of course, some small incidents happened at that time as well, but strict actions were taken at that time.
The BJP which was in opposition then kept on opposing it. When they came into power, the cell was made defunct and the elements of mining mafia were free to do their illegal activities without any fear.”
He further added, “It is sad that a state in where Gyan Swaroop Sanand (GD Aggarwal) died after undertaking a fast unto death in Haridwar against illegal mining, the Government and administration are still not taking appropriate action. They might be getting benefits from it in individual capacity, but the state is suffering because of it. We as opposition will be opposing this in Vidhan Sabha as well.”
MLA and BJP spokesman Munna Singh Chauhan said, “I dismiss any such allegation of the government favouring mining mafia and would advise the opposition to refrain from indulging in politics over such an issue. Rampant mining complaints were also there during the time of Congress government including the attacks on government officials and civilians.
However, the minerals are open property and some cases even in our Government might have happened in isolated areas. But I can claim that the illegal mining has gone down considerably under the governance of BJP. We have taken strict actions against them in the past, and in the present case as well serious action will be taken. No one will be spared irrespective of their position.”