Curbing illegal mining in East Singhbhum, 14 FIRs registered, 43 vehicles seized

Jamshedpur: The meeting of the District Mining Task Force was informed that during the financial year 2025–26, a total of 57 cases related to illegal mining, storage, and transportation of minerals were recorded in East Singhbhum district. As a result, 14 FIRs were registered, 43 vehicles were seized, and fines amounting to approximately Rs 8 lakh were collected. In the past month alone, 8 additional vehicles involved in illegal mineral transport were also confiscated.

The District Mining Task Force meeting was held at the Collectorate Auditorium under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi. Senior Superintendent of Police Piyush Pandey, ADM Law and Order Aniket Sachan, City SP Kumar Shivashish, SDM Dhalbhum Shatabdi Majumdar, SDM Ghatshila Sunil Chandra and other concerned departmental officers attended the meeting. Circle Officers and Police Station In-Charges participated virtually.

Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi instructed the team to intensify action against illegal mining activities. He emphasised that the operations must be both quantitative and qualitative. The administration will hold Circle Officers accountable for illegal storage of minerals on government land, and FIRs will be lodged against landholders in cases of illegal storage on private Raiyat land. Departments were asked to strengthen intelligence systems and conduct joint enforcement operations.

The Deputy Commissioner also directed strict action against illegal brick kilns and crusher units. A special focus was placed on preventing child labour in any industrial or construction activity. All concerned departments were asked to conduct regular checks and ensure compliance.

Instructions were given to investigate cases involving fake mineral challans and to take legal action against overloaded vehicles. Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi called for enhanced vigilance on transportation routes and mining areas.

Officials were directed to keep a close watch on closed mining sites to prevent illegal excavation. He reiterated the district administration’s zero-tolerance policy toward any form of illegal activity in the mining sector.

The Deputy Commissioner stressed that all industrial units must be regularly audited for licensing, environmental clearance, and adherence to labour laws. He instructed the teams to prioritise environmental safety and workers’ rights.

District Transport Officer Dhananjay, District Public Relations Officer Panchanan Oraon, District Mining Officer Satish Nayak, SDPO Ajit Kujur, DSP Bhola Prasad, Factory Inspector, and other officials were also present.