Ganderbal Mineral Officer Attached After Absence During CM Visit, Complaints Over Illegal Mining

Srinagar, May 11, KNT: The Directorate of Geology and Mining, Jammu and Kashmir, has attached the District Mineral Officer (DMO) Ganderbal pending an inquiry into his conduct and alleged non-performance after he reportedly remained absent during the visit of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and other dignitaries to Ganderbal district on May 10.

According to an official order issued by the Directorate of Geology and Mining, Murtaza Bashir Bhat, a chemist serving as District Mineral Officer Ganderbal, failed to remain present with the visiting dignitaries during inspections of developmental works conducted in the district.

The order stated that the officer had been informed well in advance and directed to remain present with the Director, Geology and Mining, Jammu and Kashmir, at all inspection locations.

“However, he failed to do so despite being again telephonically instructed to accompany the visiting dignitaries,” the order read.

The department further said multiple complaints had been received from members of the public and various government executing agencies regarding the officer’s alleged poor performance.

The order also mentioned that complaints were received concerning “rampant illegal mining” in district Ganderbal, prompting the department to initiate further action.

Pending inquiry into his conduct and non-performance, Murtaza Bashir Bhat has been attached to the CMT Laboratory Budgam and directed not to leave the station without prior permission from the competent authority.

The Directorate simultaneously ordered that Ghulam Nabi Pitoo, District Mineral Officer Bandipora, would additionally look after the routine work of the District Mineral Office Ganderbal till further orders.

The action comes amid growing scrutiny over illegal mining activities in several districts of Jammu and Kashmir, where authorities have recently intensified inspections and enforcement measures. [KNT]