QUESTIONS REGARDING ILLEGAL TRADE, MAFIA NETWORKS AND ADMINISTRATIVE FAILURE: BHAI DINESH

QUESTIONS REGARDING ILLEGAL TRADE, MAFIA NETWORKS AND ADMINISTRATIVE FAILURE: BHAI DINESH

23-JUNE-ENG 4

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA--------------------------A video is rapidly going viral on social media showing individuals brutally beating a man. In the video, the victim is heard being accused of "acting like a leader" and "recording videos of the illegal sand trade."

Based on the visuals and the conversation in the video, it appears prima facie that the victim was likely opposing wrongdoing or attempting to expose illegal activities. It is probable that this displeased those involved in such illicit acts, prompting them to assault him. Furthermore, the video of this incident is being circulated to create an atmosphere of fear and terror in society, ensuring that no one dares to raise their voice against illegal activities in the future.

Had the police administration and the mining department taken strict action against illegal sand mining and the associated mafia networks earlier, such shameful scenes might not be witnessed today. It is unfortunate that a perception is steadily gaining ground among the public that illegal trade in many areas cannot exist without administrative collusion. How these illegal activities operate across police station jurisdictions and district boundaries is a matter requiring serious investigation. It is surprising that information regarding such activities fails to reach senior officials, or—even when it does—effective action is not taken.

It appears that influential elements involved in illegal trade are emboldened enough to subvert the system and brazenly challenge the rule of law and democracy. These very individuals often attempt to enter politics by donning the guise of social activists. Some have already become public representatives, while others are in line to do so. It is a matter of serious reflection whether the welfare of society and democracy is possible in the hands of such people.

The most distressing aspect is that the public—the true masters of democracy—sometimes falls prey to the influence of such individuals, swayed by superficial appearances, glamour, inducements, and false propaganda. As a result, honest individuals who fight for the public interest are marginalized, while wrongful practices are encouraged.

I urge the state government to conduct an impartial inquiry into the viral video, ensure the immediate arrest of the guilty, and take strict action against illegal mining and the associated mafia network. Furthermore, the safety of those who raise their voices for the public interest and justice must be ensured so that public faith in democracy and the rule of law remains intact.