A video showing Bindan Patil, a senior geologist with the Department of Mines and Geology, allegedly damaging an earthmover during an illegal mining raid has gone viral, sparking widespread discussion over the methods used by enforcement officials. In the footage, Patil is seen hurling large stones at the machine, causing its glass panes to shatter.
Speaking to the media, Patil stated that the video relates to a raid conducted on January 3 at Inam Badas village in Belagavi taluk. She said her actions occurred during an operation against illegal laterite mining and defended her conduct during the raid.
The Belagavi Rural Assembly constituency, represented by Women and Child Welfare Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar, has been under close scrutiny in recent months due to persistent illegal laterite mining activities. Laterite, a crucial raw material for cement production, is abundantly found in this region.
Patil said the raid was carried out following a complaint by social activist Rahul Avanache of Mucchandi village to District Minister Satish Jarkiholi and Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan. However, controversy arose after no vehicles or mining material were seized during the operation. It was also alleged that illegal mining resumed at the same site within eight hours of the raid.
Illegal laterite mining is reportedly continuing at several locations in Belagavi taluk, allegedly involving multiple contractors, leading to tensions among them. The stabbing of the driver of Minister Hebbalkar’s son, Mrinal Hebbalkar, around three weeks ago has also been linked to disputes connected to illegal mining activities.
Justifying the damage caused to the earthmover, Patil said enforcement officials were left with no alternative. “When those engaged in illegal mining are not deterred by raids, what options do we have? I do not have the authority to shoot. Damaging vehicles used for illegal activities is not unlawful. Similar action is taken against boats used for illegal sand mining in rivers,” she said.
Explaining why no vehicles or materials were seized, Patil cited logistical challenges, stating that there are difficulties in storing and guarding seized equipment. She added that on the day of the raid, the earthmover and other vehicles were on their way to carry out illegal mining. Patil further alleged that those involved in the illegal activity threatened her during the raid and continued recording her actions despite warnings.
