Kalaburagi, July 10: Denying the allegations of illegal mining activities at Baby Betta in Mandya, Mines and Geology Minister Murugesh Nirani said the government is ready to order a probe into illegal mining if MP Sumalatha Ambareesh produces documentary evidence. 

Speaking to media persons here on Saturday, Mr. Nirani, who is also Kalaburagi district in-charge Minister, categorically denied illegal mining activities in Mandya. “As per my information, no mining activities are taking place around KRS dam or Baby Betta area in Mandya district. I had personally visited the spot after I was informed about the illegal mining activities. I had instructed the officials to stop stone quarrying after noticing the violation of rules. Those who violated the rules were fined, and there is a ban on stone mining,” Mr. Nirani clarified.

Read: Sumalatha warns JD(S) leaders for taking Ambareesh name in illegal mining case

Denying the charges of Mandya MP Sumalatha Ambareesh, Minister Nirani said the government is ready to order a probe if she produced any documents related to illegal mining activities to the government.  “We will order a thorough and fair investigation and take action as per the law and won’t buckle under any pressure,” Mr. Nirani assured. 

Clarifying on the safety of the KRS dam in Mandya, Mr. Nirani denied illegal mining activities within the 20 km radius of the KRS dam, which is the lifeline for farmers in Mandya. “Mining activities have been banned in the 20-km radius of KRS dam. Officials have been instructed to collect information regarding any illegal activities. It is very difficult to reveal the names of any politicians involved in stone mining activities which are happening in the last 70 years,” Mr. Nirani replied to a question. 

Replying to the query on public spat between former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy and MP Sumalatha Ambareesh, Mr. Nirani said he respected both the leaders and added that indulging in mudslinging in public would not solve any problem. “Both the leaders are intelligent and have enough experience in politics. It’s time they ended this public spat. Politicians should not indulge in mudslinging”, he opinioned. 

Read: War of words between HDK and Sumalatha over seepage in KRS dam