Overview
- Rayareddy’s letter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah alleges illegal extraction along more than 85 km of the Tungabhadra, with 100–150 truckloads moved daily to multiple districts, causing state revenue loss.
- He called for immediate transfers of named Mines and Geology officials and pressed for a district-level special task force under the commissioner to halt the trade and restore public trust.
- Koppal’s officer cadre responded with a counter-letter posing 20 questions that challenge the allegations and seek explanations on interference, use of funds, timber payments, revenue impact, and conduct toward junior staff.
- Media reports cite CCTV footage purportedly supporting corruption claims, heightening scrutiny of the local administration and the department’s oversight.
- The state has not announced transfers or a task force as of now, while the BJP has used the letter to accuse the government of enabling a mafia–official nexus, framing it as evidence of broader corruption.