Congress holds protest march against illegal mining in Hajipur

A protest march was carried out by the Congress party at Hajipur T-point today against the alleged rise of illegal mining and crusher mafia activities in the Kandi region.

The march, led by Congress leader Sarbjot Singh Sabi (Mukerian), saw a large gathering of party workers and local residents who raised slogans against the Punjab Government and the administration, accusing them of failing to curb illegal mining operations in the area.

Addressing the protesters, Sarbjot Singh Sabi, Zila Parishad member Beant Singh Randhawa, sarpanch Anil Thakur (Mansar) and former member Kulbhushan Sohal alleged that mining and crusher mafia groups are operating fearlessly, causing large-scale damage to natural resources while authorities remain inactive.

The protest later turned into a march as participants carried black flags and moved from Hajipur T-point towards Mansar road, raising slogans against the state government. The demonstrators demanded immediate action to stop illegal mining activities, stating that local residents are suffering due to environmental degradation and unchecked exploitation of resources.

Other speakers, including Baldev Singh Kaulpur, Tajinderpal Singh Sarpanch, Laki Randhawa and Thakur Varinder Singh Sandhwal, also criticised the administration for its alleged negligence.

At the conclusion of the protest, Congress leaders submitted a memorandum to SHO Hajipur Harpreet Singh, the Mining Department SDO and the Mukerian Tehsildar, demanding strict action against illegal mining operations. The leaders warned that if the issue is not addressed soon, the agitation will be intensified in the coming days.