Lokayukta can only make recommendations to State government about illegal sand and laterite stone extraction: Upalokayukta

Lokayukta institution recommends action against illegal extraction of sand and laterite stones, emphasizing government responsibility for enforcement.

The Lokayukta institution can only make recommendation about illegal extraction of sand and of laterite stones under Section 12(3) of Karnataka Lokayukta Act. It is for the government to accept the report and take necessary action, said Upalokyukta B. Veerappa to reporters in Mangaluru on Tuesday.

Asked about continued complaints to Lokyukta about illegal sand extraction and laterite stone extraction in Dakshina Kannada where the two illegal activities continues to thrive, Mr. Veerappa said he has so far not received any complaint about illegal sand extraction. One complaint about illegal laterite stone extraction in Moodibidri taluk was filed on Tuesday, few hours after he made a surprise visit to two stone extraction sites.

Expressing his dismay over the failure of the district administration in stopping over-exploitation of natural resource, Mr. Veerappa said: “We can only make recommendations to State government under Section 12 (3) of the (Karnataka Lokayukta) Act. It is for th government to accept it and take further action.” Mr. Veerappa said he is seriously concerned over exploitation of nature for extraction of laterite stone and the case is now registered with the Lokayukta. Action will be recommended against all those responsible for environment degradation. The Lokayukta institution is here to redress peoples’ problem, he added.

Affirming about zero tolerance to corruption by personnel in Lokayukta, Mr. Veerappa said the institution was keeping a close track of police and other personnel. If information about corruption is given to Lokayutka or Upalokayuktas, the same will be inquired and disciplinary action will be taken, if it is found to be true. The institution has already removed six personnel, he added

Following demand during hearing of Upalokaukta on Wednesday for an ambulance at primary health centre (PHC) in Shiradi Ghat, where more number of accidents are reported, Mr. Veerappa said the District Health Officer allotted an ambulance for the PHC.

The Upalokayukta said he did not initiate any action for filing false complaint on Wednesday about installation of telecom tower after the compliant confided he lacked legal awareness.