Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), July 18: The Odisha Mines Department conducted extensive raids on mines and stone quarries in Dharmasala, Jajpur district, on Friday. The operations targeted areas including Lunibar, Chadheidhar, and Dankari following allegations of significant irregularities in mining practices during the previous BJD government, as raised by Dharmasala MLA Himanshu Sahoo.
MLA Sahoo emphasized the need for stringent actions against those involved in illegal mining activities, citing previous allegations of irregularities during the previous government’s tenure. He stated that requests were made to the Director of Minor Minerals, Collector, and Revenue department for a thorough investigation.
Joint Director NN Singhdeo of the Mines Department confirmed the purpose of the raids, indicating that they were based on the MLA’s formal complaint. The Directorate of Minor Minerals has formed a team to investigate the allegations further. The initial findings will guide subsequent inquiries to determine whether mining regulations were violated and whether excessive mining occurred.
