A major investigation is underway in Karnataka's Belagavi district following serious allegations of illegal laterite stone mining in rural areas. The state's Department of Mines and Geology has constituted a high-level inquiry team to probe the reported unlawful excavation and transportation of the mineral.
What Triggered the Investigation?
The probe was initiated after formal complaints were filed and media reports brought the issue into sharp focus. Social activist Rahul Avanache from Mucchandi village lodged a complaint with Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan and District Minister Satish Jarkiholi. The complaint detailed rampant illegal mining, unauthorized mineral transport, and alleged misuse of official permits.
Public and media scrutiny intensified further after a recent stabbing incident involving the car driver of Women and Child Welfare Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar's son, which drew broader attention to activities in the region. Taking note of the gravity of the allegations, the state director of mines and geology ordered a detailed investigation through the regional office.
On-the-Ground Inspections and Evidence Collection
On Thursday, a special inquiry team led by Rangaswamy, the Chief Officer (Mines), along with four senior geologists from the Regional Mines and Geology Department in Ballari, conducted spot inspections in Belagavi taluk.
The team visited and thoroughly examined four specific survey-number locations where illegal laterite excavation was suspected. The inspections were carried out in the presence of the village accountant of Inam Badas and local district mines officials.
Officials took precise measurements of the length, width, and depth of excavation pits to scientifically calculate the volume of laterite illegally removed. Mineral samples were collected from each site for laboratory analysis to determine their composition and threshold value, which is critical for fixing liability and calculating penalties.
Seizure of Records and Assessment of Loss
In a significant move, the inquiry team seized all relevant records related to mineral permits issued by the district mines department. These documents include:
- Details of permit passes issued.
- Names of the firms or companies that received the mineral.
- Documented destinations for the transported laterite.
These records are now in custody and will be analyzed to assess the extent of revenue loss suffered by the state exchequer due to the illegal activities. Notably, excavation work at all the inspected sites had been completely halted for the three days preceding the inspection, indicating the serious impact of the probe.
The inquiry officials remained at the sites until late evening and declined to share any preliminary findings. This investigation follows a Times of India report on January 5th, which highlighted illegal mining in the area, including a raid by district officials and the alleged resumption of mining within just eight hours due to 'influential' backing for the contractor involved.
Laterite, a mineral rich in iron and aluminium oxides, is a key resource widely used in cement manufacturing, construction blocks, and road works, making its illegal extraction a matter of significant economic and environmental concern.
