Bains issues order to conduct raids on crusher across Anandpur Sahib and scrutinise their records meticulously • Also directs Rupnagar district authorities to engage youth clubs in identifying & reporting illegal mining activities Chandigarh, February 22: Striking a major blow to the illegal mining, Punjab Education Minister and MLA from Anandpur Sahib, S. Harjot Singh Bains, on Saturday, taken decisive action, resulting in the registration of three FIRs against illegal mining operators in Rupnagar district. This development comes after S. Harjot Singh Bains directed Deputy Commissioner (DC), Rupnagar to act tough against the illegal mining, signalling the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann led Punjab Government’s zero-tolerance approach. S. Harjot Singh Bains informed that two FIRs have been lodged at Police Station Nangal and one has been filed at Kalwan Chowki. These three FIRs have been registered under section 21 (1) and 4 (1) of the Mines and Minerals Development Rules, 1957. The Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains has also issued a series of stringent directives to DC Rupnagar to combat the rampant issue of illegal mining. He ordered immediate installation of high-resolution night vision closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras on all critical routes and pathways that could be used for transporting mining materials, as well as in areas identified as hotspots for illegal mining. The Cabinet Minister set a strict deadline of 15 days for the implementation of this measure. Additionally, S Harjot Bains mandated comprehensive raids on every crusher operating in the district, with instructions to meticulously scrutinise their records for any irregularities. He further called for heightened accountability among district officials, warning against any form of negligence or collusion with illegal mining operators, regardless of their influence or political connections. “No one will be spared— regardless of their political affiliation or status. Anyone found involved in illegal mining will face severe consequences,” he categorically said, while adding that illegal mining is a grave crime. S. Harjot Singh Bains urged the youth to come forward and collaborate with the state government to preserve the natural resources of Punjab. He directed the district authorities to engage youth clubs in identifying and reporting illegal mining activities, thereby strengthening the community’s role in safeguarding Punjab’s natural resources. “Illegal mining poses a direct threat to Punjab’s environment and economy. We will not permit anyone to exploit our land for personal gain. Strict action will be taken against all violators, and we are dedicated to maintaining complete transparency in our enforcement operations. I also urge the youth and responsible citizens to step forward and support this mission to safeguard Punjab’s resources,” he said. He said that legal mining operations would not face any inconvenience. The government will ensure that those who are operating within the law can carry on their work smoothly.
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