CD Web Desk
Bengaluru: Home Minister G Parameshwara on Tuesday made a candid admission in the Assembly, stating that “big people from all parties” are involved in illegal sand mining across Karnataka. His remarks came days after Devadurga JD(S) MLA Karemma Nayak alleged that she was threatened by sand mafiosi in Raichur district.
Calling the situation “embarrassing”, Parameshwara was responding to a question raised by Karemma. “Which leader is involved? Who is leading it? I won’t get into that. It’s a big business. Big people are involved — big people from all parties,” he said.
Last week, Karemma lodged a complaint alleging that the sand mafia had threatened her. Speaking in the House, she said she had been “honestly fighting” illegal sand mining but with little success. “They come to my house and threaten me. I am a woman MLA. What action is the government taking?” she asked, adding that those who threatened her later held a press conference with police protection.
Karemma said illegal sand mining was rampant in Raichur, particularly along the Krishna river. “I receive calls from people saying farmers’ crops are being damaged due to dust. Women feel unsafe stepping out. Even after informing the authorities, no action was taken,” she said.
She also pointed out that while the government had floated tenders for sand extraction and supply, the bids were yet to be opened. “Illegal mining means money,” she remarked.
Assuring her of protection, Parameshwara said, “We are here to protect you,” and noted that sand mining was not limited to Devadurga alone. “It has been happening across the state for many years,” he said.
The minister said the Mines and Geology Department follows the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act and has a committee comprising officials and police personnel. “When a complaint is filed, the police take action,” he said, adding that a separate Sand Task Force was also in place.
“Sometimes there are lapses. We will ensure they function properly. There is no question of compromise, but this cannot be stopped in a single day,” Parameshwara said.
Speaker U T Khader said no one should dare threaten an elected representative. “This would not have happened if the local inspector had done his job,” he remarked.
Senior BJP legislator S Suresh Kumar urged the Home Minister to launch a special operation to clean up Raichur district.
