Punjab and Haryana HC questions lack of action in illegal mining cases, warns of CBI, ED probe

Illegal mining in Punjab: The High Court is taking action against illegal mining in Punjab. The SSP of Ropar appeared in the High Court to provide information on the number of FIRs registered for illegal mining in the past year and the actions taken. Orders were given to Nangal Tehsildar and Mining Officer to furnish this information by October 4th.

The High Court has expanded its scope to investigate illegal mining across Punjab, starting with Ropar. It emphasized the need for action not only against the drivers involved in illegal mining but also against the landowners who allow it on their property. Landowners are being given a chance to take action.

If action is not taken, the High Court warned that the cases may be handed over not only to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) but also to the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The High Court is determined to investigate illegal mining in every district of Punjab systematically.

Meanwhile, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has taken a stern stance on the ongoing illegal mining case in Ropar. In orders issued on Thursday, the court demanded the immediate appearance of three crucial officials — Ropar SSP, Nangal Tehsildar, and the Executive Engineer (XEN) of the Mining and Drainage Department.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court made it unequivocal that if these three officials fail to appear in court on Friday, non-bailable warrants could be issued against them. The court also instructed these individuals to attend the court in person and bring all relevant records related to the case.

This action comes in response to the Tehsildar's repeated failure to provide essential information about the mining site, despite police intervention. The court also observed a lack of action against illegal mining activities in the Ropar region and raised concerns about the case's handling. It even hinted at the possibility of transferring the investigation of the 14 FIRs related to the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) due to the "negligence" of the SSP.

The High Court expressed deep concern that even after a year, the mining site had not been sealed. It strongly implies that illegal mining activities are continuing unchecked, with involvement from various quarters, as noted by the HC.