Chambal mining still continues, says SC:MP government faces criticism; court claims media reports suggest it was misled

The Supreme Court has expressed strong concern over ongoing illegal sand mining in the National Chambal Gharial Sanctuary in Morena district. The court observed that despite its earlier strict orders, illegal mining activities in the Chambal region have not stopped, and those involved have only changed their methods. A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta on Tuesday questioned the Madhya Pradesh government over a media report claiming that illegal sand mining is continuing openly in the area. The report also stated that vehicles without number plates are being used to transport sand. The Supreme Court warned the state government that if the media report is found to be true, it would indicate that incorrect information had been presented before the court earlier. The court has now directed the Madhya Pradesh government to file a fresh affidavit explaining the situation. During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju, appearing for the state government, said that if the report is correct, the matter is “shocking”. Serious questions will arise on the government’s affidavit
The court said – strict instructions can be issued The Supreme Court said that illegal sand mining is damaging protected wildlife habitats like the Gharial Sanctuary. The movement of unidentified vehicles and the threat to important structures in the area are also serious concerns. The court indicated that further strict instructions for monitoring and prevention might be issued.
Transport Secretary appeared in court on May 20
This case is being heard by a bench of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta. Earlier, on May 20, Manish Singh, the Transport Secretary of five districts of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, appeared personally in court. In the compliance affidavit presented in court by the Madhya Pradesh government, details of action taken against tractor-trolleys without number plates and illegal sand transportation were provided. However, the Supreme Court has already expressed displeasure, calling the state’s monitoring system rudimentary.