Rs 400 Crore Sand Mining Scam: Karnataka CM’s Advisor Alleges Nexus Between Officials and Sand Mafia

A major political storm has erupted in Karnataka after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s Economic Advisor, Basavaraj Rayareddy, alleged a deep-rooted nexus between the sand mafia and senior government officials. Rayareddy claimed that the illegal network has caused the state an estimated loss of over Rs 400 crore in royalty revenue from sand mining.

In a detailed letter to the Chief Minister, Rayareddy accused corrupt officials within the Department of Mines and Geology of colluding with the sand mafia and allowing large-scale illegal mining. He highlighted that nearly 100 to 150 truckloads of sand and jellystones are being transported illegally every day from areas around 85 km from the Tungabhadra River, with more than 200 people allegedly involved in the racket.

Rayareddy also alleged that several officials have been posted in the same regions for over a decade, contributing to unchecked corruption and the department’s deteriorating credibility. He named over ten officials, including Senior Geologist Pushpalatha, demanding their immediate transfer and strict disciplinary action.

To tackle the issue, Rayareddy proposed the implementation of a transparent system allowing homeowners to pay royalty directly to the government for construction sand. This, he argued, would eliminate middlemen, curb illegal mining, and ensure that the state receives its rightful revenue. He further suggested forming a special task force led by the Deputy Commissioner to monitor illegal sand transportation and enforce stricter vigilance measures.

Rayareddy’s allegations have given fresh ammunition to the opposition BJP, which has accused the ruling Congress government of shielding those behind the illegal trade. Senior BJP leader R. Ashoka posted on X, calling the revelation “an organised loot” and questioned why no action had been taken despite such serious claims from the CM’s own advisor.

The controversy has intensified political tensions in Karnataka, putting the Siddaramaiah-led government under pressure to initiate immediate corrective steps and restore public trust.