NCST suspends mining activities in tribal villages

Devarakonda (Nalgonda): Member of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), Jatoth Hussain ordered an immediate suspension of mining activities at tribal villages in the area until further orders from the Commission, warning that strict action would be taken if the operations continued.

On Thursday, he visited Gajinagar, Kasaram, Venkatithanda, and Bolliguttathanda villages in Devarakonda mandal as part of a review of issues faced by tribal communities. During his visit, Hussain interacted with tribal residents and enquired about their problems relating to electricity, land, roads, drinking water and other basic facilities. He directed the concerned officials to take immediate steps to resolve these issues.

Residents of Kasaram, Bolligutta and Gajinagar brought to his notice the hardships they were facing due to mining activities in their areas. Responding to their complaints, Hussain questioned the officials about the permissions granted to the mining companies and sought details of the process followed. He directed the officials to submit, within five days, the video recording of the Gram Sabha meeting in which villagers are claimed to have given consent for mining activities. He also asked whether any benefits had been provided to the villages in return for allowing mining operations.

Hussain assured the tribal residents that a comprehensive inquiry would be conducted into their problems and a detailed report would be submitted to the Central Government. He further promised to discuss the alleged irregularities by mining companies with the District Collector and mining officials to ensure justice for the affected people.

The District Additional Collector Sriniva, RDO, DSP and other mandal-level officials accompanied him during the visit.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Deekonda Ravi Shankar

[email protected]