The Gwalior High Court has taken a tough line against the Madhya Pradesh government over allegations of collusion between mining officials and the mining mafia, asking why lease holders who failed to pay massive penalty dues were still being granted fresh mining rights. The court’s sharp remarks came during the hearing of a public interest litigation filed by petitioner Akram Khan.

A division bench of Justice GS Ahluwalia and Justice Pushpendra Yadav questioned the state on why recovery had not been made from miners who owe ₹305.97 crore in penalties for illegal mining. The court also asked on what basis such defaulters were allowed to regain mining leases instead of being blacklisted and stopped immediately, as required under the rules.

According to the petition, the penalty amount has been pending since 2017, but the mineral department has failed to recover it. The plea says that despite defaulting on dues, the mining operators were not only allowed to continue but were also given fresh leases in new areas, effectively ignoring their unpaid penalties.

The petition further claims that the defaulters’ existing quarry rights were renewed even after large sums remained unpaid. This, the plea argues, shows a complete disregard for the legal process and has allowed influential operators to keep benefiting despite owing money to the state.

The petitioner also told the court that illegal mining in the Billaua and Berja areas of Gwalior district has caused serious environmental damage. The area is known for black stone and crusher aggregate trade, and the petition says mining activity has left the land riddled with deep pits of 25 to 30 metres, or around 100 feet.

The petition alleges that huge quantities of valuable black stone were extracted and sold in the market, while the revenue that should have gone to the government treasury instead went to the mining mafia. Earlier departmental inspections reportedly found large-scale illegal excavation, but no effective action followed.

The state government’s additional advocate sought time to present the government’s stand, which the court accepted. The bench granted one week’s time, and the next hearing is scheduled for 6 July 2026.

The case has drawn attention because it raises questions not just about illegal mining, but also about enforcement failure, recovery of public dues and the alleged protection of powerful defaulters. The court’s observations suggest the matter may become a major test of the state’s accountability in the mining sector.

Government cites April drone surveillance; says 44 vehicles seized, 12 arrests; next hearing on July 22

 The Madhya Pradesh government told the Supreme Court on Friday that a recent probe into alleged illegal sand mining in the National Chambal Gharial Wildlife Sanctuary found no evidence of fresh excavation, relying largely on drone imagery and ground inspections carried out after directions from the top court.

According to a sworn affidavit filed by the Gwalior circle forest conservator, teams inspected the sites identified in a Hindustan Times report and reviewed drone footage collected from the second week of April 2026. Initial reports indicated the pits mentioned in the newspaper were remnants of old mining activity and not the result of any new operations after the court’s earlier orders, the government said.

Drone surveillance cited

The affidavit said continuous drone monitoring since mid-April showed no new digging at the locations flagged in the media report. “The drone images were used to form a conclusion that after the court’s directions there was no fresh excavation,” the filing said, according to court papers submitted by the state.

Officials told the bench — comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, who heard the matter on Friday — that tractors seen carrying sand in some drone frames likely contained material from pre-existing trader stockpiles rather than newly excavated sand. The state added that action is being contemplated against traders for illegal storage and transportation where warranted.

Enforcement steps outlined

The government also gave a tally of enforcement measures taken so far. It said 12 persons have been arrested in connection with illegal mining and transportation; 44 vehicles suspected to be engaged in unauthorised sand movement have been seized; and eight vehicles have been formally confiscated (rajasat). Several FIRs and preliminary crime reports have been lodged against unregistered vehicles and other offences, the filing noted.

Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju, representing the state in court, assured the bench that stringent surveillance would continue across the Chambal sanctuary and that the government would take steps to prevent any recurrence of illegal sand extraction. He said necessary measures related to monitoring and supervision would be expedited.

Background to court action

The Supreme Court began pressing the three affected states after a Hindustan Times story on alleged continuing illegal sand mining in the sanctuary prompted the court to seek a formal reply from Madhya Pradesh on May 26. In earlier orders, the court had expressed concern that illegal mining in the Chambal had evolved into an organised network, criticising the operation of unregistered vehicles, vacancies in forest staff positions, and gaps in monitoring that could have exacerbated environmental harm.

In its detailed directions, the court had asked states to step up CCTV coverage, seize vehicles implicated in illicit mining, take action against those responsible, and file progress reports every two months.

State, centre to file fresh reports

The matter has been tagged for the next hearing on July 22, when the Supreme Court directed Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh — along with the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) — to present fresh factual reports on measures taken. Officials said the July listing will also consider updated surveillance data and enforcement outcomes.

On the ground, local forest officials in Morena and adjacent districts said patrolling has been intensified, with frequent night and early-morning checks aimed at intercepting unauthorised movements along riverine stretches. Sources familiar with enforcement work said the drone operation has been complemented by selective on-site inspections and checks of sand depots.

Public and environmental stakes

Environmentalists and residents in river-adjacent villages have long warned that unchecked sand mining damages riverine habitats, threatens species such as the gharial and Indian skimmer, and increases erosion risks. The court’s continued oversight reflects those concerns and the broader legal push to balance livelihood pressures against conservation obligations.

The state’s assertion that no fresh mining was detected will be scrutinised when parties return to court in July. For now, the government has promised accelerated monitoring and further legal action against alleged illegal storage and transporters of sand.

Woman Dies After Falling Into Quarry in Rewa, Tractor Overturns

Rewa quarry accident highlights illegal mining concerns as villagers demand strict action after woman’s death

A 35-year-old woman died after falling into a stone quarry in Rewa on Tuesday morning, in an incident that has once again drawn attention to alleged illegal mining activities in the area. The matter occurred near Baijnathpur in Naubasta village, where complaints of unauthorised excavation have surfaced repeatedly over the past few months.

The deceased has been identified as Sumitra Kevat. According to initial reports, she fell into a deep quarry pit, triggering panic at the site. In the immediate aftermath, a tractor present at the location also overturned, adding to the chaos and concern among those present.

Incident unfolds quickly

Locals said the sequence of events unfolded rapidly during the morning hours. Sumitra had reportedly gone to the quarry area when she slipped and fell into the pit. Family members and others were nearby at the time but were unable to prevent the fall.

The tractor overturning soon after the fall created a tense situation, with villagers gathering at the site as word spread. Some attempted to assist before authorities arrived, though by then, it was too late.

Illegal mining concerns

Residents of Naubasta and nearby areas allege that illegal stone extraction has been ongoing for months without effective intervention. They claim heavy machinery and tractors frequently transport mined material, often operating without adequate safety measures.

“Accidents like this have been waiting to happen,” said a local resident, pointing to the depth of the quarry pits and lack of fencing or warning signs. According to villagers, repeated complaints to authorities have not resulted in sustained action.

Police response

According to police officials, the woman had entered the quarry area where illegal excavation was suspected. “She fell into a deep pit, which led to her death,” a police officer said, adding that a case has been registered.

Station in-charge Ghanshyam Mishra confirmed that a team reached the spot soon after receiving information. The body was recovered and sent for post-mortem examination.

“We are investigating all aspects of the case, including the role of illegal mining. Necessary action will be taken based on findings,” he said.

Family present at site

Sources familiar with the matter said that members of the victim’s family were present when the incident took place. The suddenness of the inciedent  left them in shock, with little time to react.

There were no immediate reports of injuries from the tractor overturning, though it heightened the urgency of the situation and raised questions about operational safety at such sites.

Villagers demand action

Following the incident, villagers gathered and voiced strong objections to the alleged inaction against illegal mining. They demanded immediate steps to halt unauthorised quarrying in the area.

Residents argued that stricter monitoring and enforcement could prevent such tragedies. “If authorities had acted earlier, this could have been avoided,” one villager said, echoing a sentiment shared by many at the site.

Investigation underway

Authorities have indicated that a detailed inquiry is being carried out. Officials are expected to examine whether safety norms were violated and identify those responsible for illegal mining activities.

The Rewa quarry accident has once again brought focus to the risks associated with unregulated excavation, particularly in rural pockets where oversight may be limited. For now, the administration faces mounting pressure to ensure accountability and prevent further incidents.

Woman Dies After Falling into Illegal Mine in Rewa; Tractor Overturns Amid Panic

A 35-year-old woman lost her life after slipping into a deep pit dug for illegal stone mining in Naubasta village under the Baijnathpur area on Tuesday morning. The incident also triggered chaos when a tractor overturned nearby, heightening fears over unchecked illegal mining operations in the region.

Local residents described the morning as ordinary until the sudden cry alerted everyone. Sumitra Kewat had gone to the mining site along with family members when she fell into one of the abandoned or freshly dug pits. The fall proved fatal. In the ensuing panic, a tractor at the spot overturned, though no other serious injuries were immediately reported.

Rising Concerns Over Illegal Mining

Naubasta and surrounding areas in Rewa district have seen persistent complaints of rampant illegal stone extraction for several months. Villagers allege that heavy volumes of stones are being quarried and transported without proper authorisation, often under the cover of early mornings or late evenings. The activity has left the landscape dotted with dangerous, unfenced pits, turning the area into a hazard zone.

“These pits are deep and sudden. If the administration had acted on our repeated complaints, this tragedy could have been avoided,” said several locals who gathered at the spot soon after the incident. They pointed out that such accidents have become a recurring risk due to the lack of effective checks on mining mafias operating in the vicinity.

Family Present at the Time of Mishap

According to initial accounts, Sumitra Kewat was not alone. Other family members were present when the incident occurred around Tuesday morning. The exact sequence—whether she was collecting stones or simply traversing the uneven terrain—remains under investigation. Police said she was in the area linked to illegal mining activities.

The tractor overturn added to the confusion, with villagers rushing to the site and creating a scene of commotion. Some helped pull out the vehicle while others attended to the victim, though she was declared dead on the spot.

Police Reach Spot, Body Sent for Post-Mortem

Baijnathpur police swung into action immediately after receiving information. Station in-charge Ghanshyam Mishra confirmed that a team reached the location promptly. The body of the deceased was taken into possession and sent for post-mortem. 

“Investigation is underway. We are also looking into the illegal mining angle,” Mishra said. Officials indicated that action would be taken against those involved in unauthorised extraction if evidence surfaces.

Villagers Demand Immediate Crackdown

Anger among residents was palpable as they accused the administration of turning a blind eye to the growing menace. Many claimed that despite multiple representations, illegal quarrying continues unabated, endangering lives and damaging the local environment. They demanded a swift ban on such activities and proper fencing or filling of dangerous pits to prevent future mishaps.

This incident comes at a time when illegal mining remains a sensitive issue across parts of Madhya Pradesh. While authorities periodically launch drives, ground-level enforcement often appears weak, allowing operators to resume work quickly.

Safety Risks and Public Impact

The death of Sumitra Kewat has once again brought into focus the human cost of unregulated mining. Women and daily wagers from nearby villages frequently venture into these areas in search of minor earnings or resources, exposing themselves to grave risks. The uneven land, loose soil, and sudden drops have made the region treacherous, especially during early hours when visibility can be low.

Local leaders and social workers have called for stricter monitoring, including regular patrols and use of technology to track suspicious vehicle movement carrying mined material. They also stressed the need for alternative livelihood options so that villagers do not depend on risky, illegal activities.

As the investigation proceeds, police are expected to question family members and witnesses to piece together the full circumstances. The district administration is likely to face renewed pressure to address long-standing grievances related to illegal stone mining in Rewa’s rural pockets.

For now, the family of Sumitra Kewat mourns their loss while the village waits to see whether this tragedy will finally force concrete steps to curb the dangerous practice that has claimed yet another life. 

MP High Court Orders Contempt Case Against BJP MLA Sanjay Pathak

Division bench directs criminal contempt proceedings over alleged attempt to contact judge in ₹443 crore mining recovery matter linked to Pathak family firms

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has ordered the registration of a suo motu criminal contempt petition against BJP MLA Sanjay Satyendra Pathak from Vijayraghavgarh in Katni district. The directive came after the court took cognisance of an alleged attempt by the legislator to contact a sitting judge regarding a pending case involving illegal mining and recovery of over ₹443 crore from companies linked to his family.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva and Justice Vinay Saraf passed the order on Thursday while hearing a petition filed by Katni resident Ashutosh Manu Dixit. The bench directed the court registry to register the contempt petition and list it for hearing on April 6, 2026. It also issued notice to Pathak asking why criminal contempt proceedings should not be initiated against him.

Judge Recuses from Mining Case

The development traces back to September 1, 2025, when Justice Vishal Mishra recused himself from hearing a writ petition related to alleged excess mining by three companies — Anand Mining Corporation, Nirmala Minerals, and Pacific Export. In his order, Justice Mishra explicitly recorded that Sanjay Pathak had made an attempt to call him to discuss the particular matter concerning the Pathak family’s mining companies. He stated he was not inclined to entertain the writ petition and referred the case to the Chief Justice for reassignment.

Advocate Arvind Shrivastava, appearing for petitioner Dixit along with Puneet Shroti, drew the court’s attention to this disclosure in the order sheet, which included a reference to the recorded conversation attempt. The division bench took serious note of the incident, observing it as a prima facie case of interference in judicial proceedings.

Background of Illegal Mining Allegations

The core dispute revolves around allegations of illegal and excess mining in the Sihora area of Jabalpur district, including operations reportedly on forest land. Ashutosh Dixit first approached the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) in Bhopal on January 31, 2025, accusing the companies of failing to deposit substantial amounts due to the government.

Following a preliminary enquiry, an investigation team was formed in April 2025. The team submitted its report on June 6, 2025, recommending recovery of over ₹443 crore from the three firms for mining beyond approved limits. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav had also informed the state assembly that the companies had extracted minerals in excess of permissions granted.

Dixit later moved the High Court in June 2025, alleging inaction by authorities despite his complaints. The companies, in turn, filed intervention applications in the matter. Sources indicated that the Pathak family has been associated with the mining business for decades, with no prior major complaints of royalty or tax evasion on record from their side.

Contempt Proceedings and Judicial Response

During Thursday’s hearing, the division bench rejected objections raised on behalf of the MLA and proceeded to initiate suo motu action. The court emphasised the need to protect the sanctity of judicial processes. Petitioner’s counsel highlighted that earlier complaints had not led to prompt action, prompting the move to the High Court.

Sanjay Pathak, a five-time MLA and former minister of state in the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government, is often described as a prominent figure in the mining sector in the region. He has not issued any public statement on the latest court order so far.

Impact on Governance and Public Trust

The case has sparked discussions on judicial independence and the boundaries of political influence in ongoing legal matters. Legal experts view the court’s swift response as a strong reaffirmation of the principle that any attempt to influence a judge undermines the administration of justice.

For the mining sector in Madhya Pradesh, the episode highlights ongoing scrutiny over compliance with environmental and regulatory norms, particularly in iron ore extraction zones. The recovery proceedings against the companies are expected to continue independently, with GST implications to be decided separately.

What Lies Ahead

The criminal contempt petition will come up before the court on April 6, 2026, when Pathak is likely to file his response. The matter could have implications for similar cases where allegations of over-mining surface in mineral-rich districts.

Meanwhile, the original writ petition concerning enforcement of the mining recovery has been reassigned and is under active judicial consideration. Authorities in the mineral department continue to monitor compliance and recovery processes.

This incident underscores the judiciary’s zero-tolerance approach towards any perceived interference in its functioning, even as the state government pushes for transparent resource management in key sectors. Developments in the contempt case will be closely watched in political and legal circles across Madhya Pradesh.