**Rampant Illegal Sand Mining Exposed in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh**
A recent investigation has revealed extensive illegal sand and gravel mining operations in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, both governed by the BJP. This investigation highlights a vast network of sand mafias that operate with impunity, despite ongoing claims of law enforcement efforts. Tragically, in just one week, two individuals, including a forest official, have lost their lives, while local residents, officials, and police report that fear has become a part of their everyday lives.
Our reporters traveled through ten districts—Dholpur, Ajmer, Baran, Alwar, and Sikar in Rajasthan, and Ratlam, Morena, Jabalpur, Sheopur, and Sehore in Madhya Pradesh—documenting the ongoing illegal mining activities in riverbeds, forest lands, and hill ranges, often accompanied by threats of violence. The investigation reveals a disturbing trend of increased boldness among the sand mafia, who exploit weak enforcement and intimidation tactics.
**Forest Guard Killed in Dholpur**
One of the most shocking incidents occurred in Dholpur, Rajasthan, where a forest guard was killed after being run over by a tractor-trolley loaded with illegally mined gravel from the Chambal River. On January 8, forest guard Jitendra Singh Shekhawat attempted to halt the illegal transportation when he was deliberately struck. Despite medical intervention, he succumbed to his injuries days later. Regional Forest Officer Devendra Singh confirmed that a case has been filed against unknown assailants, and police have arrested a known gravel mafia operator in connection with the incident.
**Public Outcry Following the Incident**
The death of the forest guard has sparked widespread protests, with Rashtriya Loktantrik Party leader Hanuman Beniwal leading a march from Nagaur to Jaipur, accusing the state government of protecting illegal miners. Beniwal criticized the administration’s failure to curb illegal mining, stating, “If the government cannot stop illegal mining, it should admit its failure.”
**Ajmer Administration Takes Action**
In response to the Dholpur incident, the Ajmer district administration has initiated a special anti-mining campaign. District Collector Lokbandhu emphasized that illegal mining will not be tolerated and warned that strict action will be taken against any mafia attempting to attack officials or disrupt law enforcement. Joint teams from the Mining Department, Police, and Revenue officials have already seized vehicles, imposed significant fines, and filed FIRs against repeat offenders, particularly in areas like Pushkar and Kekri.
The ongoing illegal mining crisis in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh raises serious concerns about environmental degradation and public safety. As authorities grapple with the challenges posed by the sand mafia, the need for effective enforcement and community safety remains paramount.
**FAQ**
**What measures are being taken to combat illegal sand mining in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh?**
Authorities are launching special anti-mining campaigns, conducting raids, and imposing fines on offenders to curb illegal mining activities in these states.
