Committee refutes earth extraction curb slur
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, June 29 2025: The Save Environment Campaign Committee has refuted allegations that it obstructed earth extraction from the Heingang hills for flood-related emergency work, with its chairman Mutum Inaobi demanding public evidence from the Joint Coordinating Committee (JCC), Heingang Mayai Leikai within five days.

Addressing media persons at Heingang on Sunday, Inaobi dismissed allegations levelled by JCC convenor Tayenjam Shanta as baseless and malicious, accusing the convenor of intimidating him in public.

Inaobi challenged Shanta to present proof of the accusations before the public within five days, failing which he threatened legal recourse.

Inaobi clarified that neither he nor the committee imposed any restrictions on soil extraction from the said hill for emergency purposes such as the recent flood response.

He said that the committee has consistently supported public welfare activities in the locality and did not object to the recent use of soil from the hill for flood-related mitigation.

He also highlighted the committee's decade-long commitment to environmental protection, stating that the present greenery of Heingang hill is a direct result of its sustained efforts.

Despite the committee's work, illegal soil mining has continued unabated on the hill, he said, alleging that those involved enjoy significant political clout that hinders police action.

Recalling a 2018 petition he filed to the High Court, Inaobi said the court had subsequently banned unauthorised earth extraction in Heingang hill and directed the state government to enforce the ban.

The then chief minister had also assured on the floor of the state Assembly that specific areas would be identified where soil extraction could be legally permitted.

However, no follow-up action was taken, and illegal soil mining persists in areas like Nongmaijing and Chingkhei hills.

He reiterated that the Save Environment Campaign Committee has never opposed soil mining when it serves public interest, particularly for Heingang area.

Inaobi condemned what he termed as unfounded allegations and demanded proof.

Comment