The Gujarat High Court has demanded an explanation from the secretary of the industries and mines department regarding the failure of officials to act against illegal sand mining in Surat district. Nearly 1 lakh metric tonnes of sand was mined, leaving large craters in forest land in Tajpore Bujrang village, Bardoli taluka.
Court Expresses Displeasure Over Inaction
Justice Nikhil Kariel expressed displeasure over the alleged neglect of complaints seeking action against illegal mining. The court noted that officers delayed taking action, indicating possible collusion between government officials and the mining mafia to exploit natural resources.
Geologist's Response Irks Court
The court was upset to learn that upon receiving complaints, the geologist of the geology and mining department wrote to various government departments asking which department was involved in the mining activity, instead of directly inquiring with the miners at the site.
Petitioner's Allegations
According to petitioner Deven Kunkana, multiple complaints and representations were made to all concerned authorities in June 2024 regarding ongoing sand mining near Tajpore Bujrang. Nearly 1 lakh MT of sand was excavated and transported by trucks over several months, but no action was taken.
Court Observations on June 11
On June 11, the High Court observed that state authorities had abdicated their responsibilities. It noted that illegal sand mining continued with impunity on government wasteland, with over 37,000 MT (as per the advocate general) to 1,00,000 MT (as per the petitioner) illegally mined.
FIR Registered After HC Notice
Following the HC's notice, authorities registered an FIR on June 14 at Bardoli Rural police station against six persons, including Horizon Construction, under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Mines and Minerals Act.
Court Orders Explanation from Top Official
The reply filed by the geologist further irked the court. On Thursday, the HC ordered the secretary of industries and mines to file a reply explaining why no action was taken regarding the complaint, by June 29, 2026. The court also sought a response from the Surat district collector and posted the matter for further hearing on June 30.
