Pattabhi Ram Kommareddy, the spokesperson for the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), made allegations on Friday suggesting that the Andhra Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy, has purportedly misappropriated an estimated sum ranging from Rs 40,000 to 50,000 crore in sand revenues.
According to Kommareddy, the YSRCP administration is purportedly complicit in illicit sand mining activities across the state.
It is noteworthy that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change had substantiated instances of unauthorized sand mining in Andhra Pradesh, subsequently furnishing a report to the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
During a press briefing on Friday, Kommareddy asserted, "Despite assertions of innocence by Jagan Reddy and his allies regarding alleged illicit sand mining, reports submitted to the NGT corroborate the prevalence of widespread unauthorized sand extraction throughout the state."
Furthermore, he highlighted that the purportedly unlawful mining activities are exacerbated by the absence of computer-generated invoices, CCTV surveillance, and vehicle tracking mechanisms.
Additionally, the TDP spokesperson underscored that the central government had censured sand mining ventures operating beyond legally designated lease areas. Consequently, the NGT mandated a cessation of both mechanized and non-mechanized mining activities from March 23, 2023.
However, Kommareddy lamented that mining operations continue unabated in Andhra Pradesh despite directives for inspections from environmental authorities and repeated calls for accountability from state officials, including District Collectors and the Chief Secretary.
He emphasized that the surge in sand prices, which has soared to Rs 15,000 per unit, is imposing an onerous burden on ordinary citizens.
Furthermore, the TDP leader condemned the Jagan Reddy administration, alleging attacks on journalists attempting to report on this issue.
"The mounting evidence suggests that Jagan's tenure may be short-lived, with repercussions awaiting implicated officials. It is high time that all officials in authority and the people demand transparency and accountability in safeguarding our natural resources," remarked Kommareddy.
