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Supreme Court Cracks Down on Illegal Sand Mining in Chambal
18 Apr
Summary
- Supreme Court mandates strict prosecution and accountability for illegal sand mining.
- States are warned of paramilitary deployment and mining bans if inaction continues.
- High-resolution CCTV cameras and GPS tracking mandated for monitoring mining vehicles.
The Supreme Court has issued a stern directive to Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh to curb illegal sand mining in the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary. The court expressed strong disapproval of the states' "lackadaisical response" and "administrative indifference," warning that continued inaction could lead to the deployment of paramilitary forces and a complete ban on sand mining.
To ensure compliance, the court mandated the installation of high-resolution, Wi-Fi-enabled CCTV cameras and GPS tracking for mining vehicles in vulnerable areas. Specialized, round-the-clock patrolling teams equipped with modern arms are also required in high-risk zones, addressing concerns about illegal miners possessing sophisticated weapons.
The court stressed that environmental protection is a "constitutional imperative," condemning the unchecked exploitation of fragile ecosystems. It urged states to invoke provisions for preventive detention and asset seizure, along with stringent prosecution, to tackle organized illegal mining operations, noting reports of forest guards being killed by mining mafias.
Failure by the states to implement effective measures by May 11 could compel the Supreme Court to invoke extraordinary jurisdiction. This may include deploying paramilitary forces, imposing a complete ban on sand mining in specific states, and levying heavy penalties, underscoring the urgency of protecting the sanctuary's rich biodiversity.
