THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Chatra, February 20: State BJP spokesman Pratul Shah Deo on Friday launched a sharp attack on the Hemant Soren government, alleging that the past six years marked a “golden era for illegal mining mafias and organised criminal gangs” in Jharkhand.
Addressing a press conference in Chatra, Pratul claimed that while the state government speaks of protecting “water, forest and land”, natural resources are being exploited on an unprecedented scale under its rule.
Allegations of Record Illegal Mining
He alleged that illegal coal extraction over the past six and a quarter years has broken all previous records. According to him, there is a growing perception among people that the volume of coal mined illegally during this period may have exceeded the combined production of Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL) and Central Coalfields Limited (CCL).
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He further alleged that illegal stone mining has led to the disappearance of several hills in districts such as Sahibganj and Palamu. He also accused sand mafias of continuing operations across the state despite restrictions imposed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
Rise of Organised Crime
The BJP spokesperson claimed that as Naxal influence has declined in parts of the state, organised criminal gangs are rapidly expanding their presence. He alleged that incidents of murder linked to non-payment of levy or protection money have become increasingly common.
On this basis, he said it would not be an exaggeration to describe the current situation as a “golden era of illegal mining mafias and organised criminal syndicates” in Jharkhand.
The state government has not yet responded to the allegations.