Illegal Mining Scam in Uttar Pradesh

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) launched an investigation into an alleged illegal sand mining scam in Uttar Pradesh, implicating former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav. The case centers on alleged irregularities in the allocation of sand mining leases across the state between 2012 and 2016, a period during which Yadav held the portfolio of Mining Minister in his government. The CBI initiated a preliminary enquiry in January 2019, subsequently registering a First Information Report (FIR) against several individuals, including IAS officers and alleged beneficiaries. While Yadav is not directly named as an accused in the initial FIR, the CBI stated that his role, being the Minister in charge of the Mining department during the alleged period, requires examination. The agency has conducted raids at multiple locations and has questioned Yadav in connection with the case. The allegations suggest a nexus between government officials, leaseholders, and political figures leading to environmental degradation and significant revenue loss to the state exchequer. The investigation continues to probe the extent of the irregularities and the involvement of various individuals and institutions.