Bhubaneswar: Mining and Revenue officials in Odisha are increasingly becoming targets of violent assaults, primarily by the rampant sand mafia, as authorities step up efforts to curb illegal mining activities across the state. These incidents highlight the dangerous challenges faced by government personnel in enforcing regulations and protecting natural resources.
In a recent alarming incident, Tapas Kumar Behera, the Junior Mining Officer of Balasore, sustained serious injuries after being brutally attacked by a group of sand mafia operatives on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. The assault occurred at Kathasangada in the Remuna area when Shri Behera, along with his driver and a clerk, intercepted a tractor engaged in illegal sand lifting from the Budhabalanga riverbed.
When asked to produce documents, miscreants with ties to the sand mafia swiftly arrived and allegedly assaulted the officials. Behera suffered injuries to his face and chest, while his two staff also sustained minor injuries. All three were admitted to the district headquarters hospital and later discharged after preliminary treatment. Police have registered a case and are investigating the incident, utilizing a video recorded by a local to identify the culprits.
This attack follows closely on the heels of another similar incident earlier this month. On June 2, Bhima Kanta Majhi, the Additional Tahsildar of Kaptipada in Mayurbhanj district, was injured when he was allegedly assaulted by individuals linked to an illegal mining gang.
The incident occurred near the Suno riverbed while Shri Majhi was en route to conduct a raid against illegal transportation of minerals. His vehicle was also damaged. Police have so far arrested nine persons in connection with this attack, with a search underway for others involved. The Revenue Minister has vowed stringent action against the culprits, emphasizing the government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining.
These incidents underscore the escalating confrontation between enforcement agencies and powerful illegal mining syndicates. Officials are often outnumbered and outmatched by well-organized groups that operate with impunity. The repeated attacks raise serious concerns about the safety and security of government officials performing their duties, particularly in remote and vulnerable areas.
Authorities have vowed to take stringent action against those involved in these attacks and to intensify their efforts against illegal sand mining. However, the recurring violence highlights the need for more robust protective measures for officials and a comprehensive strategy to dismantle these illegal networks that continue to pose a significant threat to both law enforcement and the environment.
Illegal sand mining remains a pervasive issue in Odisha, leading to environmental degradation, loss of revenue for the state, and often, violent clashes. The demand for sand for construction purposes fuels a lucrative black market, making it challenging for authorities to curb these activities effectively. The attacks on officials are a stark reminder of the risks associated with combating this illicit trade.