The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Rajasthan has filed a case against officials from the Mining Department, crusher owners, and royalty contractors. They are accused of misleading the state government by presenting illegal mining as legal, causing significant revenue loss. The case stems from a complaint about irregularities in mining operations in Bharatpur.
The complaint alleges that Mining Department officials in Bharatpur collaborated with crusher owners and royalty contractors to exploit permits for closed mines. These permits were reportedly used to transport and process illegally extracted minerals under the guise of legal mining, avoiding royalty payments and other government obligations. The ACB’s preliminary inquiry uncovered evidence implicating public servants and private entities in these illicit activities.
According to a statement by the ACB, individuals such as Ramniwas Mangal, Virendra Kumar, Rajendra Singh, Sanju Singh, and Bhim Singh, along with various companies, are among the accused. The investigation revealed a large-scale operation involving the illegal extraction of mineral resources, with the perpetrators manipulating permits and records to conceal their actions, leading to substantial financial losses for the state.
The ACB highlighted that the actions of Mining Department officials and private entities suggest an abuse of power and criminal collusion. A case has been registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act based on the initial findings. Further investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of illegal mining, quantify the revenue losses, identify additional culprits, and take legal action against all involved parties.
