ACB Registers FIR Against Mining Officials, Private Operators Over Alleged Illegal Mining and E-Challan Manipulation
Udhampur, Oct 16, KNT: The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered a case against two mining officials and several private persons over alleged illegal extraction and transportation of minor minerals, overcharging and manipulation or misuse of electronic challans.
According to the ACB, FIR No. 09/2026 has been registered at ACB Police Station Udhampur against Rajeev Jammu, Assistant Mining Engineer, District Mining Officer Udhampur; Rameshwar Sangra, District Mining Officer Reasi; Swaran Singh Rathore; and other private persons. The case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, as amended, and other applicable laws.
The ACB said the allegations concern private mining operators, including stone crusher operators, who allegedly extracted minor minerals beyond permissible limits and continued mining operations after the expiry of their leases.
The allegations also include charging rates higher than those notified by the government, manipulation and misuse of e-challans, and operation of stone crusher units beyond the validity of their required Consent to Operate (CTO).
According to the Bureau, an enquiry indicated the alleged involvement of public servants in facilitating these activities in connivance with private operators. Investigators are examining the individual roles of those named, the extent of alleged illegal extraction and transportation, the alleged overcharging and the resulting loss to the government exchequer.
The ACB said searches have been initiated at residential and commercial premises linked to the accused persons. The searches and investigation are in progress.
The Bureau said action would be taken in accordance with law against persons found involved in illegal mining, corruption, abuse of official position or causing loss to the government exchequer. [KNT]
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