Ludhiana, Punjab: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Punjab unit has once again levelled serious allegations against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Punjab government, claiming that an “active sand mafia” is operating openly in Ludhiana district and causing massive losses to the state exchequer.
In a statement issued by BJP leaders, the party alleged that illegal sand mining is continuing “in broad daylight” across several parts of Ludhiana, despite repeated government assurances to end mining-related corruption. The BJP claimed that heavy machinery and unregulated excavation are being used in riverbed and adjoining areas, allowing illegal operators to extract sand worth millions of rupees while “government agencies remain silent spectators.”
The party further alleged that the Mann government had earlier promised strict action against illegal mining networks but has “failed to deliver results on the ground.” According to BJP spokespersons, the continued activity of the sand mafia reflects administrative negligence and possible political protection to vested interests operating in the mining sector.
BJP leaders also pointed out that villages in and around Ludhiana have repeatedly raised complaints about environmental damage, falling riverbank stability, and illegal transport of sand-laden trucks during night hours. They argued that such activities not only deprive the state of revenue but also pose risks to infrastructure and agricultural land along river belts.
Calling for an independent investigation, the BJP has demanded stricter enforcement of mining laws, installation of monitoring systems, and accountability of officials in the mining and transport departments. The party has also reiterated its earlier demand for a high-level probe into illegal sand mining across Punjab.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government has in earlier responses consistently denied allegations of protecting any “mining mafia,” stating that action is being taken against illegal mining operations through FIRs, seizures, and enforcement drives under updated mining policies.
The issue of sand mining remains one of the most politically charged debates in Punjab, with both ruling and opposition parties frequently trading allegations over control, corruption, and enforcement failures in the sector.