Jaipur Mining Scam: ACB Probe Uncovers Massive Illegal Stone Transport
The Anti-Corruption Bureau's ongoing investigation into an alleged mining permit scam has made startling revelations. Investigators have discovered that transportation passes for approximately 15 lakh tonnes of illegally excavated stones were issued in the names of two non-operational quarries.
Defunct Quarries Used for Illicit Operations
Both quarries involved in this scheme had been virtually defunct for nearly five years. The poor quality of stone at these sites made them unsuitable for legitimate mining operations. Despite this inactivity, government officials colluded with private parties to issue 'ravanna' passes against these quarries.
These mineral transport passes were later used by crusher machine owners and other parties to legitimize illegally extracted material. The ACB registered an FIR on Tuesday naming multiple government officials, mining lease-holders, and contractors for their alleged involvement.
How the Scam Operated
The fraudulent scheme operated through manipulated and false paperwork. Illegally mined minerals were passed off as legal through this documentation. The scam specifically involved mining lease numbers 299/02 and 300/02, both located near Pholet village in Deeg district.
Investigators explained that despite no actual mining activity occurring at these sites for years, officials worked with private entities to create the appearance of legitimate operations. This elaborate deception allowed massive quantities of illegally extracted stones to enter the market as if they were legally obtained.
Financial Impact and Investigation Details
The resulting loss of royalties to the government runs into crores of rupees. The ACB's probe has revealed that mining assessments of the two leases from 2019 onwards record mineral extraction volumes that are impossible in reality. These fabricated records do not match actual site inspection reports.
The scam operated through the connivance of multiple parties including leaseholders, mining engineers, surveyors, and foremen. Some departmental staff involved in the irregularities had managed to get themselves transferred out over fear of exposure. The FIR notes that the agency intends to pursue these transferred officials as well.
This investigation continues to uncover the depth of corruption in Rajasthan's mining sector. The ACB remains committed to following all leads and bringing all responsible parties to justice for this elaborate scheme that defrauded the government of significant revenue.
