Ludhiana Villagers Defy Administration, Continue Protests Against Alleged Illegal Mining
In a significant development in Ludhiana, villagers and members of a farmers' organization have persisted with their protest against what they term "illegal mining" in the Khaira Bet area. This defiance comes despite the district administration's assertion that the activity is legitimate desilting work from an allotted site.
Protest Details and Leadership
Advocate Ravinderpal Singh Raju, the prominent figure leading the protest, provided detailed accounts of the demonstration. He stated that on Sunday, more than 700 villagers, including between 200 to 250 women from multiple villages such as Khaira Bet, Walipur Kalan, Burj Man Singh, Noorpur Bet, and Hambran, gathered at the Pukka Morcha to voice their opposition.
"We will not allow illegal mining to be disguised as desilting," declared Advocate Raju, emphasizing the protesters' resolve. He further asserted that they would remain steadfast until authorities permanently halt the mining operations. Raju leveled serious allegations, claiming that the concerned parties have excavated the riverbed to a depth of 20-25 feet to extract sand, far exceeding what would be necessary for desilting purposes.
Environmental and Safety Concerns
Saurav Syal, a member of the committee that initiated the protest, highlighted the broader environmental and safety implications. He referenced recent flood events, noting that many villages were placed at significant risk, with villagers' land being washed away by the floodwaters.
"Our protest is fundamentally about safeguarding the lives and property of our community," explained Syal. The protesters have consistently maintained that the mining is illegal and have raised strong objections against the use of heavy machinery in the area, citing potential ecological damage and increased flood vulnerability.
District Administration's Position
In a statement issued on Saturday, the district administration presented a contrasting viewpoint. Officials clarified that there is an allotted desilting site within the Khaira Bet complex in Ludhiana district. The administration emphasized that the activity is entirely legal and constitutes authorized desilting work.
Furthermore, the statement justified the use of heavy machinery, describing it as a necessary component of a time-bound process essential for maintaining river health and preventing future flooding. This official stance has done little to quell the villagers' concerns, leading to the ongoing standoff.
Key Points of Contention
- The scale and depth of excavation, which villagers argue exceeds desilting requirements.
- The environmental impact and increased flood risks associated with the operations.
- The legality of using heavy machinery in the sensitive riverine ecosystem.
- The fundamental disagreement over whether the activity constitutes mining or desilting.
The situation remains tense as villagers vow to continue their protest until their demands for a permanent cessation of the activities are met, setting the stage for potential further confrontations with authorities.
