Habitual violator already banned by NGT
Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, Mar 4: Instead of taking action against a clear case of illegal mining, the District Mineral Officer (DMO) of Budgam has asked the violator-which has already plundered Sukhnag-to present documents, if any, in its defence.
In a letter issued to the violator, Project Manager of M/S NKC Projects Pvt. Ltd., Basecamp Gudsathoo, Budgam, the DMO has stated that its action has caused “environmental damage” and a “loss” to the public exchequer.
“As reported by concerned field staff (Tehsil Khansahib) of this office, you have unauthorizedly engaged men and machinery at Lanilab Basant Wooder in Shaliganga Nallah and extracted Minor Mineral,” the letter read.
The DMO stated that the action contravenes the provisions and rules of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, as amended from time to time, as well as The Jammu and Kashmir Minor Mineral Concession, Storage, Transportation of Minerals, and Prevention of Illegal Mining Rules, 2016, issued via SRO-105 of 2016 dated 31-03-2016 and amended from time to time.
It is to be noted here that it is the same company that has been plundering Sukhnag and whose operations were halted by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
The DMO stated in the letter that a video of the illegal mining was also circulated on social media on March 2, 2025.
“Approximately 300 Mts of Nallah Mukh has been lifted illegally which attract action as warranted under the said rules.”
However, despite the evidence and despite terming the action as unauthorized in the communication, the violator has been plainly directed to stop illegal mining at said spot forthwith “and produce any relevant documents, if any, in this regard in this office within three days.”
Failing which, the communication stated, it will be presumed that “you have nothing to say/produce in your defence and action as warranted under rules shall be initiated.”
The DMO has informed the concerned departments, including fisheries, police, and the Revenue, that no permission for mining has been granted in this case.
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