Yediyurappa back-tracks on quarrying in Karnataka, Siddaramaiah hits out

By: Express Web Desk Written by Express Web Desk | Bengaluru |

January 24, 2021 5:30:46 pm

Days after a large explosion close to a quarry killed no less than six individuals in Karnataka’s Shivamogga district, Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on Sunday clarified that quarrying can be allowed within the state however solely “within the framework of law”.
On Saturday, the CM had mentioned, “Those operating (quarries and stone crushers) without licenses will be given time to regularise their business failing which, they would face stringent legal action.”
Adding that his earlier assertion on quarrying had been misinterpreted, the mentioned, “With so many national highways, road construction, and public development works going on, gravel is needed. There is no problem in quarrying gravel within the framework of law but our objective is to stop illegal quarrying.”
After visiting the blast web site in his hometown, Yediyurappa admitted that unlawful mining was going down at many locations throughout the state. “I have directed deputy commissioners (DCs) of all the districts to stop illegal mining with immediate effect. Mining will be allowed only if applications are filed. DCs will do spot inspections and take appropriate action,” he added.

Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition within the Assembly and former CM Siddaramaiah termed Yediyurappa’s statements as “irresponsible”. He urged the BJP-led authorities to take strict motion in opposition to all these concerned in unlawful mining, regardless of political affiliation.
“Yediyurappa is perhaps under the impression that legalising illegal mining is the same as regularising houses and land. He would not have made such an irresponsible statement if he had some of knowledge about the law?”
Holding the CM answerable for unauthorised mining “at such a large scale” in his dwelling district, Siddaramaiah mentioned, “Illegal mining is a critical challenge. It has already taken the lives of many harmless individuals. I strongly demand an inquiry by a sitting High Court decide.
Revenue minister and vice-chairman of Karnataka Disaster Management Authority, R Ashok, on Sunday mentioned that the investigation into the case wouldn’t be handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Addressing media at Chikmagalur, he mentioned, “Karnataka Police is quite capable of investigating the matter and therefore, it (the probe into the incident) will not be handed over to the CBI. Necessary action will be taken against those found guilty after a thorough probe.”
Three individuals, together with the quarry proprietor, have been arrested in reference to the incident up to now. On Friday, hours after the accident, Yediyurappa ordered a high-level probe into the incident and introduced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh every to the kin of the lifeless.