Supreme Court Cracks Down on Illegal Sand Mining in Chambal Sanctuary

The Supreme Court, taking serious note of illegal sand mining in the National Chambal Sanctuary, declared that such activities in protected areas will attract offenses and penalties under various laws, including the Wild Life (Protection) Act.

A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta expressed concerns over the officials of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh being 'vicariously liable' for facilitating the destruction of habitats. The sanctuary is a critical habitat for endangered species like the gharial and Ganges river dolphin.

The court issued notices to the concerned states and departments, seeking detailed responses. Notably, it was highlighted that even areas where gharials were recently released have come under threat. The matter, undergoing scrutiny based on news reports, will have exhaustive directions once the responses are assessed.