Ajay Sharma
Reasi, October 9
Despite tall claims from the administration of intensifying measures against illegal mining, a local whistleblower in Reasi has accused authorities of ignoring widespread illegal operations in local rivers and nallahs.
The whistleblower reported that overloaded vehicles transporting sand and stones are bypassing multiple checkpoints and licensing requirements.
“Mining operations are entirely suspended, yet tractors and dumpers continue to transport sand and stones while the administration appears blindfolded,” the whistleblower said.
He further alleged that the District Mineral Officer (DMO) in Reasi has disregarded the issue, despite the installation of surveillance cameras.
The whistleblower questioned how vehicles obtain receipts for river-extracted sand under the administration’s watch.
Locals intercepted an overloaded vehicle on the Devak-Hathal road this morning. When the driver was confronted about transporting sand amid a total mining ban, he started dodging the query.
The whistleblower maintained that surveillance cameras are in place but questioned whether any vehicles have been captured on footage.
He also highlighted that locals who detained a tractor received no support for seizures, with authorities citing a lack of “proof.”
The whistleblower claimed that involvement by certain officials and employees cannot be overlooked.
“Vehicles from Reasi travel to distant markets such as Bambla or Sunderbani—evading 5-6 checkpoints and 2-3 police stations—without inspection,” the whistleblower said. He questioned the source of stock receipts when the material is reportedly carried from rivers.
He alleged that many officers actively seek postings in Reasi, as the prevalence of illegal mining is widely known. Sand truck rates range from Rs 25,000 to Rs 28,000.
“A minister has acknowledged that illegal mining in Reasi has become routine,” said whistleblower, adding “some people are doing it” without identifying those responsible.
He said that such illegal practices goes against the anti-corruption initiatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
“Local administration appears to be complicit in carrying out this illegal practice and promoting corruption by ignoring the mining mafia,” alleged whistleblower, adding “The government incurs losses in crores. In the past as well Anti-Corruption Bureau requested records, but has anyone filed an FIR? Has anyone been arrested?” the whistleblower questioned.
He stated that under the direct supervision of former DIG Udhampur-Reasi range, several vehicles, including JCBs, and dumpers had been seized, but things are again back to square one, with illegal mining going unabated.
