Lagatar24 Desk
Ranchi: Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi has launched a scathing attack on the JMM-led Hemant Soren government, accusing it of being complicit in rampant illegal sand mining across Jharkhand. Referring to a weakened bridge over Rādhu River in Silli, Marandi said the very foundation of the state is being hollowed out by sand mafias allegedly shielded by the government.
“Mafias Targeting Jharkhand’s Backbone”
Taking to social media platform X, Marandi warned that the bridge, which has been structurally compromised by sand mining, could collapse at any moment. “Hemant Soren-sponsored sand mafias are not only undermining the base of the bridge, but also the possibilities of development, the future of youth, and the foundation of governance in the state,” he wrote.
He labelled the dilapidated bridge a symbol of the collapsing internal system of Jharkhand, weakened by corruption and unchecked exploitation of natural resources.
“Sand Revenue Reaches CM Office”: Marandi’s Explosive Allegation
Marandi further alleged that despite repeated alerts about illegal sand operations in Silli, the state government has turned a blind eye. “It now seems the government’s only objective is to loot rivers and mountains to fill its own coffers,” he said.
In a serious accusation, the BJP leader claimed that police from all stations between Silli and Ranchi are collecting extortion money from sand-laden vehicles, which is then funneled directly to the Chief Minister’s Office. He questioned the Mining Department’s superficial task forces, calling them “paper tigers” meant only to show action on record.
“Silence Will Be Seen As Complicity”
Warning state officials, Marandi said that continued silence and inaction on illegal mining will be seen as active participation in the loot. He urged bureaucrats to serve their responsibilities with honesty rather than bowing to political pressure from JMM and Congress, and demanded immediate action to protect Jharkhand’s resources and its future.
