The Madras High Court has directed the Pudukottai district administration to take stringent measures to curb illegal sand mining in two waterbodies located in Oonaiyur and Verachilai villages under Thirumayam taluk. The directive came during the hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by K Shanmuganathan.
Petitioner's Allegations
In his PIL, Shanmuganathan alleged that illegal sand mining was being carried out extensively in the two waterbodies. Despite submitting a formal representation to the authorities, no action was taken, prompting him to seek judicial intervention.
Government's Response
The Additional Government Pleader submitted that an inspection confirmed illegal mining activities, resulting in the removal of 1,023 cubic metres of gravel sand. Consequently, action was initiated under the Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Act, 1957, and Rules 36-A(1) and (3) of the Tamil Nadu Minor Minerals Concession Rules, 1959. Criminal proceedings were also launched against the offenders. A special monitoring team was constituted to oversee quarrying activities.
Petitioner's Counter-Argument
The petitioner's counsel argued that although mining had stopped during daytime, illegal operations continued unabated at night, undermining enforcement efforts.
Court's Directive
Taking cognizance of the submissions, a division bench comprising Justice N Sathish Kumar and Justice M Jothiraman directed the authorities to ensure that no illegal mining occurs, including during night hours. The judges further instructed that penalties be imposed on those responsible for removing gravel and that criminal action be pursued against them. The petition was disposed of accordingly.
