**The Government’s Move to Tackle Sand Mining Crisis**
The Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule has made a significant move to address the long-standing issue of illegal sand mining in the state. Two revenue officers, Darshan Nikam and Mohan Tikle, have been suspended from their posts in the Tumsar subdivision of Bhandara district for their involvement in illegal sand mining and hoarding activities.
Background of the Issue
The problem of illegal sand mining has been plaguing Maharashtra for several years, with sand mafias operating with impunity. Despite repeated efforts by revenue officers and collectorate officials to curb these activities, the situation has not improved significantly. In fact, several officials have even been attacked by these mafias, highlighting the gravity of the issue.
- Sand mafias have been excavating and transporting river and creek sand without fear of consequences.
- Revenue officers and collectorate officials have been attacked by these mafias.
- The government machinery has been inadequate in curbing these illegal activities.
A New Policy and Strict Action
The state revenue department recently introduced a new sand policy, which was approved by the state cabinet on Tuesday. As part of a broader crackdown on illegal mining, the state government has begun taking strict action, starting with the suspension of the two revenue officers. The new policy aims to ensure that sand extraction and transportation are carried out in a transparent and environmentally friendly manner.
- The state government has introduced a new sand policy to curb illegal sand mining.
- The policy aims to ensure that sand extraction and transportation are carried out in a transparent and environmentally friendly manner.
- The new policy was approved by the state cabinet on Tuesday.
Investigation and Consequences
The two officers were accused of corruption following an inquiry conducted by the Revenue Commissioner of the Nagpur Division. The inquiry found both officials complicit in illegal activities. The investigation revealed that sand extraction had been carried out from mines without the required environmental clearances.
“Any attempt to illegally exploit sand resources, which belong to the people, will be strictly dealt with across Maharashtra. Revenue officers must remain vigilant and take this issue seriously.”
— Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule
| Investigation | Consequences |
| Conducted by Revenue Commissioner of the Nagpur Division | Suspension of two revenue officers |
| Found both officials complicit in illegal activities | Accused of corruption |
| Sand extraction carried out from mines without environmental clearances | Comprehensive probe and disciplinary action |
Response to the Assembly
In response to concerns raised in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly over the government’s delayed response and compensation for victims of accidents involving trucks carrying illegally mined sand, Minister Bawankule assured the Assembly that an inquiry would be completed within seven days by divisional commissioners. He also ordered the suspension of the officers.
Minister’s Message
Minister Bawankule emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “Illegal sand mining and hoarding are very serious offenses. Any attempt to illegally exploit sand resources, which belong to the people, will be strictly dealt with across Maharashtra. Revenue officers must remain vigilant and take this issue seriously.”
Conclusion
The government’s move to tackle the sand mining crisis is a significant step towards curbing these illegal activities. The suspension of the two revenue officers sends a strong message that the government is serious about addressing this issue.
