Supreme Court Steps in Over Illegal Sand Mining Endangering Gharials in National Chambal Sanctuary

The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognisance of illegal sand mining in the National Chambal Sanctuary, expressing concern that the activity is threatening endangered aquatic wildlife, particularly the Gharial.

A bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta noted reports indicating that rampant mining was occurring even in protected areas meant for gharial conservation.

The Court observed that such activities were forcing gharials to relocate from their habitats. 

The matter has been placed before Chief Justice of India Surya Kant for appropriate directions and further consideration by a suitable bench.