Haryana Rights Panel Takes Notice of 'Illegal' Mining in Panchkula, Seeks Action-Taken Report

The Haryana State Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognizance of alleged illegal mining activities in Panchkula and has directed the district administration to submit a detailed action-taken report. The move comes amid growing public concern over the environmental and social impact of unchecked mining operations in the region.

In recent months, several villages in Panchkula district—including Rampur, Shahpur, Kajampur, Narianpur, Haripur, Khedi Badoona, and Hangoli—have reportedly become hotspots for illegal sand and gravel mining. Local residents and environmental activists have raised alarms over the damage to natural resources, the increasing risk to nearby infrastructure, and threats to public safety.

Authorities have claimed to have taken steps to curb the menace. According to official data, 32 vehicles involved in illegal mining have been impounded and 15 FIRs registered since April 2023. In a bid to strengthen local oversight, the district administration has formed village-level monitoring committees consisting of panchayat members and influential local stakeholders. These committees are tasked with reporting any suspicious mining activities and assisting enforcement teams in identifying violators.

Surprise inspections have also been ramped up, with multiple raids carried out at mining hotspots. In one of the largest crackdowns to date, enforcement teams confiscated 16 heavy vehicles, including dumpers and excavators, and imposed fines amounting to several crores of rupees.

Despite these actions, illegal mining continues to flourish, prompting deeper scrutiny. Serious allegations have emerged regarding a possible nexus between law enforcement officials and the mining mafia. Reports suggest that although dozens of suspects have been identified, arrests have not followed at the expected pace. This has led to judicial criticism and demands for greater accountability from the police and district officials.

In response, the Haryana rights panel has asked the district administration to submit a report detailing the measures taken to combat illegal mining, the number of cases registered, vehicles seized, and any disciplinary action initiated against erring officials. The Commission emphasized that illegal mining not only threatens the environment but also constitutes a violation of human rights, especially when local livelihoods and public safety are compromised.

The outcome of this inquiry is likely to influence future policy and enforcement strategies related to mining in the state, as public pressure mounts for more transparent and effective governance.