JAMMU: In a major crackdown aimed at curbing illegal mining and safeguarding the environment, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) launched Joint Surprise Checks (JSCs) across Udhampur district and Reasi district.
The operation followed complaints alleging widespread illegal mineral extraction in the Jammu Division and a suspected nexus between mineral bidders and certain officials of the Mining and Ecological Departments, enabling the activities to continue unchecked.
Specialised ACB teams led by Gazetted Officers carried out coordinated inspections at multiple stone crushing units in both districts to immediately halt unauthorised extraction and misuse of natural resources.
Key findings include:
- Seizure of evidence: Officials confiscated electronic devices, relevant records and documents during searches at the sites.
- Forgery detected: Several allegedly forged ‘Form-A’ transit documents were recovered from operational units.
- Environmental violations: All inspected stone crushers were found to be operating in violation of prescribed norms and conditions, with indications of illegal mining activities causing ecological damage.
The ACB stated that further investigation is underway based on the material seized and reiterated its commitment to taking strict action against corruption and the unlawful exploitation of natural resources in Jammu and Kashmir.
