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Supreme Court Slams Rajasthan's Inaction on Chambal Sand Mining
12 May
Summary
- Supreme Court finds Rajasthan's efforts against illegal sand mining are merely on paper.
- Rajasthan lacks a mining plan since 2020 and an eco-sensitive zone around the sanctuary.
- Court warns of paramilitary force deployment if states fail to curb illegal sand mining.
The Supreme Court on Monday issued a stern warning regarding illegal sand mining in the Chambal Gharial Sanctuary, particularly highlighting Rajasthan's "utter failure" to combat the mining mafia. The court observed that preventative steps documented by the state exist solely on paper, with insufficient resources being utilized for enforcement.
Rajasthan has not had a valid mining plan since 2020 and has yet to notify an eco-sensitive zone around the sanctuary. The court also noted alarming details such as unregistered tractors operating with impunity and home guards being deployed against armed criminal syndicates.
Concerns were also raised about inadequate manpower and legal protections for forest guards in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The Central Empowered Committee (CEC) reported that personnel lack sufficient legal backing to confront the mining mafia without fear of retaliatory action.
In response to the ongoing crisis, the court is considering further directions, including potential deployment of paramilitary forces and heavy penalties on states that fail to implement effective remedial measures to protect the environment and wildlife.
