Shimla:
Rakesh Jamwal, Chief Spokesperson of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and MLA, has launched a sharp attack on the Indian National Congress government over alleged illegal mining activities in the Dharmpur area, accusing the administration of remaining silent while a “mining mafia” continues to exploit natural resources.
Jamwal claimed that illegal mining in the Dharmpur region has caused significant damage to agricultural land and drinking water projects. According to him, more than 200 bighas of farmland have been affected over the past few years due to continuous extraction of minerals from two major seasonal streams (khads).
He further alleged that four to five drinking water supply schemes have been directly impacted, creating a severe drinking water crisis for thousands of residents in the area.
“This is not a new issue. I have repeatedly raised the matter of illegal mining in the Assembly, yet the Congress government has failed to take any concrete action,” Jamwal said, questioning the government’s intent and policy.
The BJP leader also alleged that the mining mafia is operating with political protection. “Dozens of tractors and tippers are engaged in illegal mining during the night, while the concerned departments appear completely inactive. This clearly indicates that the mafia is receiving protection from higher levels,” he stated.
Jamwal added that even observations made by the Himachal Pradesh High Court have allegedly been ignored, which he described as a serious matter. “When the court itself has had to intervene and the government still fails to act, it reflects clear administrative failure,” he said.
He further accused the Congress government of allowing “mafia rule” to flourish in the state, claiming that farmers and local residents are the worst affected. “Cultivable land is being destroyed, water sources are drying up, and the government remains a silent spectator,” Jamwal remarked.
Jamwal demanded immediate and strict action against illegal mining, identification of those responsible, and strong legal measures against the culprits. He also called for rehabilitation and environmental restoration in the affected areas.
Warning the government, he said that if swift action is not taken, the BJP will launch a statewide agitation to raise the issue and fight for the rights of the people.
