SAD seeks judicial probe into mining in Nawanshahr

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, January 10

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) today demanded an inquiry by a sitting High Court Judge into illegal mining at Bairsal quarry in Nawanshahr. The party asked why no action had been initiated against the sand mafia even after recent disclosures.

In a press note, the party has demanded a complete expose of the culprits, abettors and their masters. Party spokesperson Maheshinder Singh Grewal said the latest disclosures about illegal mining being carried out were shocking despite clear instructions by the office of the Chief Minister.

“The High Court inquiry should find out who is behind this and why the government is behaving like a helpless spectator,” Grewal said.

He said the sand mafia was not even sparing quarries which had been shut down by the Mining Department due to pending dues against bidders or other irregularities. He said the Bairsal quarry, where illegal mining was spotted on Wednesday, had been closed by the department since December 13, 2018.

He said it was surprising to note that the quarry under question had been even raided by the Vigilance Department, yet no effort was made by the district administration to nab the culprits.