Why is K'taka CM's economic advisor challenging the sand mafia?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Basavaraj Rayareddy demands action against the sand mafia.
- Illegal sand transportation in Koppal district is rampant.
- The government is losing significant revenue due to uncollected royalties.
- Corruption allegations involve officials from the Department of Mines and Geology.
- Immediate government intervention is necessary to restore public trust.
Bengaluru, Oct 21 (NationPress) The Economic Advisor to the Chief Minister and prominent MLA Basavaraj Rayareddy has voiced concerns regarding the sand mafia operating in Karnataka, calling upon CM Siddaramaiah to take swift action.
In correspondence directed to the Chief Minister, Rayareddy emphasized the need for serious attention to this pressing matter and urged the government to implement decisive measures to curtail the ongoing financial losses in Koppal district.
This development could potentially ignite controversy throughout the state.
Rayareddy highlighted that Koppal district features over 85 kilometers of the Tunga Bhadra riverbank, rich in loose sand available year-round. Approximately 100 to 150 truckloads of this sand are reportedly being illicitly transported daily to Gadag, Ballari, Hubballi, Dharwad, Chitradurga, and Bengaluru without the necessary documentation or permits.
He stressed that this illegal activity is inflicting a notable financial blow to the state government due to the uncollected royalties.
Public concern has been growing regarding a potential collusion between officials from the Department of Mines and Geology and local authorities, with allegations of rampant corruption. Rayareddy asserted that a sand mafia comprising over 200 individuals is operating within Koppal district, and the extensive corruption among department officials has become a subject of widespread discussion.
He cautioned that such circumstances are damaging the reputation of the state government. In light of this, he demanded an immediate cessation of the illegal transportation of loose sand and jelly stones.
Rayareddy also urged the Chief Minister to reassign corrupt officials from the Department of Mines and Geology in Koppal district.
He specifically mentioned Senior Geologist Puspalata S. Kavaluru, who has been in Koppal for five months, claiming she is under the influence of junior officers and lacks awareness of the local situation. Reports suggest her involvement in illegal mining activities via her relatives, prompting him to request her transfer to another district.
Similarly, he accused officer Sukanya Hosamani, who has served in Koppal for five years, of corruption. CCTV footage and media reports have surfaced, adding weight to these allegations.
Rayareddy stated that this scenario is a significant embarrassment for the state government and called for robust action to convey a strong message.