Revenue authorities in Nashik have taken decisive legal action against ten individuals involved in unauthorised extraction of minerals. A formal complaint has been lodged with the Wadiwarhe police station, marking a significant crackdown on illegal mining operations in the region.
Details of the Illegal Mining Operation
According to Nashik Tehsildar Pankaj Pawar, the illicit activities were centred in the Sarul area. The accused operators were carrying out mining work despite their official permissions having lapsed. "The permissions given to them expired in terms of period and volume. But they were carrying out the mining activities," Pawar stated, highlighting the clear violation of regulations.
Administrative Action and Financial Impact
The Minor Minerals Department conducted an assessment which revealed that the illegal activity resulted in a substantial financial loss to the state exchequer. The administration estimates a loss of Rs 1.1 lakh in royalty payments that should have been accrued from the extracted minerals.
Prior to filing the police case, the revenue administration followed due process by issuing notices to the accused. These notices demanded that the individuals present valid permissions for the mining work they had undertaken at the sites. However, the accused failed to provide an appropriate response to these official notices, leaving the authorities with no choice but to pursue legal recourse.
Legal Charges and Implications
The complaint has been registered under relevant sections of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulations) Act for the violations, along with applicable sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). This action underscores the administration's commitment to curbing illegal mining, which poses environmental risks and causes revenue losses.
This case serves as a stern warning to other operators who might be flouting mining laws in the district. The revenue department's proactive stance indicates a tightening of enforcement against such unauthorised activities.
