Hyderabad, March 2 (NationPress) K. T. Rama Rao, the working president of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), has raised significant allegations regarding the e-auction of mining blocks in the Suryapet district of Telangana. In a formal communication directed to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, he has called for an urgent independent investigation and the annulment of the contentious tenders.

Rama Rao contended that the e-auction process is plagued by severe procedural inconsistencies, statutory infringements, and potential legal violations.

He criticized the Mines and Geology Department for executing the e-auction in a manner that purportedly compromises transparency. Citing a notification dated August 30, 2024, he highlighted several flaws in the tendering process.

KTR pointed out that approximately 1,100 acres of designated forest land are situated within the Pasupulabodu, Saidulnama, and Sultanpur mining blocks. However, the tender documents allegedly omitted essential technical information including exact latitude and longitude coordinates, DGPS survey validation, forest compartment details, comprehensive survey maps, and UTM geo-coordinates.

He further asserted that the required geological assessments outlined in the Mineral Auction Rules of 2015 and the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act of 1957 were not provided, casting doubt on the legality of the process.

KTR also expressed alarm over the authorities advancing with the auction despite ongoing legal reviews and failing to adhere to instructions issued by the Telangana High Court in a writ petition filed in 2024. He questioned the announcement of preferred bidders even before the completion of necessary environmental and statutory clearances.

Expressing concerns over the selection of Deccan Cements Limited and NCL Industries Limited, KTR noted that these companies are reportedly embroiled in cases related to illegal mining in protected forest areas.

He further alleged that the auction was conducted without acquiring the essential No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Forest Department, cautioning that such actions could jeopardize the environment and diminish public confidence.

KTR demanded the immediate suspension of all activities under the notification, the cancellation of the tender, and a prompt independent investigation. He urged the government to issue new tenders only after conducting thorough scientific surveys and obtaining all necessary statutory clearances in a transparent manner.

Copies of the correspondence were also forwarded to Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and the Chief Secretary.