Sand Mafia Under Scanner: Human Rights Front Seeks Stern Action After Attack on Tahasildar

Cuttack: Raising serious concerns over illegal sand mining and its growing impact on law and order, Manoj Jena, Chairperson of Human Rights Front India, has urged strict action against those involved in such activities, including the perpetrators behind the recent attack on Vyasanagar Tahasildar Prasant Panda.

During a meeting at the Police Headquarters in Cuttack, Jena met the Additional Director General of Police (Law & Order), Sanjay Kumar, and presented the publication Human Rights: Reflections & Responsibilities. He highlighted alleged large-scale violations by sand mafias operating in the Baitarani river basin in Korei block of Jajpur district.

Drawing attention to the seriousness of the issue, Jena cited the Vyasanagar tahasildar incident as a disturbing example of how illegal sand mining networks are becoming increasingly aggressive and emboldened. He specifically requested the police to take stern and immediate action against those involved in the murderous attack on Tahasildar Prasant Panda, stressing the need to ensure safety and protection of government officials on duty.

Jena further pointed out that rampant and unchecked sand extraction is not only damaging the river ecosystem but is also eroding governance and posing a direct threat to law enforcement mechanisms in the region.

Taking note of the concerns, the ADG (Law & Order) assured that necessary steps would be taken to address the issue and curb illegal activities linked to sand mining.

The incident has once again brought the spotlight on the challenges posed by illegal sand mining in Odisha, with increasing demands for strict enforcement, accountability, and stronger protection for officials working on the ground.