Gauhati HC issues notice to Assam, Nagaland on plea linking illegal mining to floods
The Gauhati High Court has directed the Assam and Nagaland governments and other authorities to submit detailed affidavits by November 3 regarding eastern Assam's devastating floods. The petition, filed by Congress leader Debabrata Saikia, links the floods to alleged illegal and unscientific sand and stone mining in the Dikhow riverbed, activities in Nagaland catchment areas, and water release from upstream dams. Saikia alleged that prolonged administrative inaction, despite earlier warnings and court directions, aggravated the July flood, which claimed over 80 lives.
Key Points
- Gauhati High Court has sought detailed affidavits from Assam and Nagaland governments on eastern Assam's devastating floods.
- The petition links the floods to alleged illegal mining in the Dikhow riverbed and activities in Nagaland catchment areas.
- Congress leader Debabrata Saikia highlighted administrative inaction despite previous court directions against illegal mining.
- The High Court had previously sought measures against illegal mining and the constitution of a Mines and Minerals Task Force Battalion in 2019.
Exam Facts
- Gauhati High Court issued the notice, seeking affidavits by November 3.
- Congress leader Debabrata Saikia filed the petition.
- The July flood claimed more than 80 lives.
- A State's Water Resources Department report from January 12 had warned about the consequences of continued excavation.
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