SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Tuesday ordered an official inquiry into the demolition of several brick kilns and crushers in Budgam district after legislators alleged that registered and tax-compliant units were targeted while illegal operations continued unchecked.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary announced the probe in the Legislative Assembly while replying to questions raised by National Conference (NC) MLAs Shafi Ahmad Wan and Ali Mohammad Dar.
Providing details of the sector in Budgam, the Deputy Chief Minister said there are 199 brick kilns operating in the district, of which 128 have deposited the required royalty with the District Mineral Officer for consumption of brick earth during the current financial year.
He informed the House that the Geology and Mining Department is responsible for monitoring whether raw materials used by these units are sourced and transported legally. The department also keeps track of related operations through an online system. As per official records, 107 crusher units and 44 hot wet mix plants are registered on the departmental portal and are required to update their legal quantities and carry out all sales and transportation through e-challans and e-permits.
The issue gained momentum after MLA Ali Mohammad Dar alleged that three brick kilns in his Chadoora constituency were demolished despite having valid registrations and paying Goods and Services Tax. He claimed that several illegal kilns and crushers in the area were left untouched.
Dar further alleged that he was manhandled during the demolition process, prompting sharp reactions in the House. He demanded a detailed inquiry and sought accountability for what he described as selective enforcement.
Condemning the alleged manhandling of the legislator, Choudhary assured members that the government would examine the matter. When members expressed dissatisfaction with a general assurance, Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather intervened and pressed for a concrete response.
Following this, the Deputy Chief Minister said that the Commissioner Secretary concerned would conduct a formal inquiry and submit a report to the House. He added that the Deputy Commissioner is the competent authority for granting registrations to such units.
The decision to order an inquiry comes amid growing concerns from legislators over the implementation of mining and industrial regulations in Budgam, with questions being raised about fairness and consistency in enforcement actions.
The government has not yet specified a timeline for the completion of the inquiry.
