Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD/SP)

Udupi, Oct 7: Senior officer in the mines department, Ramji Nayak, who reportedly had joined hands with illegal crusher entrepreneurs and unlawful sand extractors from the district, was recently transferred from here. On September 28, he was relieved from here and took charge at Shivamogga.

On Monday October 5, several crusher owners and people involved with the sand mafia treated Nayak to a grand meal complete with non-vegetarian food at a luxury hotel in the city. A number of crusher owners and others involved with the sand transportation racket had taken part in the programme.

A number of government officials from the department of mines were present at the feast. They arrived at the hotel in the government jeep and partied at the expense of crusher owners.

The people have provided video recording and other information to the deputy commissioner of the district and also the Anti-Corruption Bureau. However, people say that no action has been initiated against the concerned.

When Ramji Nayak was in Udupi, he had extended wholehearted support for illegal sand mining and also had solidly backed the crushers which were flagrantly violating the law. It is said that several crushers which had suspended operations because of undertaking activities in the deemed forest areas, were allowed to restart their illegal business by collecting bribes running into lacs of rupees. Members of the crusher and illegal sand mining racket showed their gratitude to Ramji Nayak by hosting him to a grand party in a luxury hotel. As per information, he also received gifts worth lacs of rupees.

This officer had played a major role in allowing illegal sand mining from River Swarna, on which the city residents are dependent for their drinking water requirements. He had joined hands with local politicians and allowed sand worth crores of rupees to be transported illegally. After the people complained about the illegal activities, the Lokayukta officials had raided the spot and found illegal sand extraction.

In the said case, a complaint has been registered against this official. The complaints made by the people against Ramji Nayak relating to giving permission to illegal crushers and mines are under probe. In view of a large number of complaints received against the official, the government had transferred the officer. But other officials who were hand in glove in the corrupt practices of the officer continue to work in the district. These officials were seen at the party on Monday.

The fact that government officials had openly taken part in a party offered by the operators of illegal rackets has given rise to discussions among the people. Social activists have urged the district administration to act immediately to restore confidence of the people in the administration.