Illegal mining at Bebi Betta: Lokayukta complaint against CM, MP

Levelling allegations against the elected representatives for allowing illegal mining activities at Bebi Betta in Pandavapura taluk, RTI activist K R Raveendra has lodged a complaint before the Lokayukta Special Court, against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, MP C S Puttaraju and his family members on Thursday.

In his complaint, the activist has alleged that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has used his power to permit his supporter and Mysuru City Corporation Member B M Nataraju to take up mining activities and had even inaugurated Yatin Mines Company, owned by Nataraju. "The CM had allegedly directed the authorities concerned, during a meeting, to ensure that all necessary facilities are provided to mining companies. A letter has been written to the Deputy Conservator of Forest and Chief Conservator of Forests in this regard," the complaint states.

He has alleged that MP Puttaraju and his family members are involved in illegal mining on Amrut Mahal Kaval, meant for conservation of the breed of cattle, a private property, owned by the erstwhile kings of Mysuru. "They had exerted pressure on the authorities concerned to get necessary permission. By not paying a royalty, they have also caused a loss in crores of rupees to the government treasury," he alleged.