Before asking Punjabis to protect their turbans, Channi must answer mining questions: Jasvir Singh Garhi
AAP leader seeks probe into alleged illegal mining in Rupnagar during former CM’s tenure
Babushahi Bureau
Sri Chamkaur Sahib (Punjab), October 17, 2026: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Sri Chamkaur Sahib constituency in-charge Jasvir Singh Garhi on Saturday demanded an impartial investigation into alleged illegal mining in Rupnagar district during former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi’s tenure.
Addressing a press conference, Garhi referred to complaints concerning Jindapur, Daudpur, Fasse and other locations in the region and sought details of the action taken by the authorities.
“Before asking Punjabis to protect their turbans, Charanjit Singh Channi must answer questions about alleged illegal mining in Rupnagar district during his tenure as Chief Minister,” Garhi said.
He said illegal mining was a serious issue involving Punjab’s natural resources, the environment and public interest, adding that it should not be limited to political statements or videos.
Garhi called for an investigation into alleged illegal mining during the previous government and sought an examination of mining activities in the context of floods between 2021 and 2023. He said the inquiry should establish whether mining had affected natural water flows or contributed to environmental damage, with the findings made public.
The AAP leader also cited a Forest Department complaint dated January 25, 2022, which, according to him, alleged excavation using machinery and sand extraction through tippers in a government forest area. He demanded a review of the complaint, official records and the action taken by the authorities.
“The people of Punjab want facts, transparency and accountability, not political rhetoric,” Garhi said, adding that anyone found involved in illegal mining through a lawful investigation should be held accountable, irrespective of political affiliation or position.
He maintained that mining under the present AAP government was being carried out according to prescribed norms and said he would continue to seek action against illegal mining in the Mand belt of the constituency.
Garhi also raised questions about the construction of the Bele-to-Paniali bridge and promises made to residents of the Mand belt, seeking clarification from Channi on the work undertaken during his tenure and the project’s present status.
Referring to the historical and religious significance of Sri Chamkaur Sahib, Morinda, Bhattha Sahib, Kotla Nihang and Gharuan, he stressed the need to protect the region’s heritage and social environment.
He also expressed concern over liquor-related activities in the area and called for issues affecting the region’s social fabric to be addressed seriously.
Reiterating his demand for transparency, Garhi said past mining complaints, Forest Department records and the action taken by the authorities should be examined, with the findings made public.
Amandeep Singh Mangat, Gurpreet Singh Happy, sarpanch of village Farid, Vikrant Thakur and other prominent persons were present at the press conference.