Uncontrolled Mining Mafia – Daily Excelsior

The violent attack on the joint team of geology and mining personnel and police by the mining mafia near the Tawi River is a stark reminder of the severity of the illegal mining menace in Jammu. Despite repeated warnings from the High Court of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh, which imposed a ban on mining activities in the Tawi River downstream of the Sidhra Bypass Bridge, illegal operators continue to act with audacity. The incident, in which the mafia pelted stones at the police and damaged the DMO’s vehicle, exposes a deep-rooted problem of impunity and lack of preparedness in dealing with these rogue elements. The mining mafia has become increasingly organized and emboldened, as reflected in the way they responded to the official operation. Armed with information, these illegal operators quickly mobilized and gathered dozens of men to repel the joint G&M and police team. This type of swift retaliation indicates premeditation and a high degree of coordination between the mafia and local actors who continue to leak crucial information, thwarting efforts to enforce the law.
What is particularly disturbing is the vulnerability of those charged with implementing the law. The police team, who had reportedly been advised to carry weapons in anticipation of trouble, was ill-prepared, forcing them to flee the scene, leaving the G&M staff exposed to the attack. In a region where illegal mining is a lucrative business, one would expect a greater degree of willingness from authorities to crack down on offenders, especially in sensitive operations conducted at night. It is time for the government, including law enforcement agencies and the G&M department, to work more closely keeping in mind the evolving tactics of the mafia. Intelligence services need to be strengthened and officers need to be adequately armed and prepared for resistance. Furthermore, swift legal action, including immediate arrests and seizure of equipment, is necessary to send a strong message to those who defy the law. The HC guidelines cannot be ignored and the government must ensure that no gaps are left for the mafia to exploit.