SC directs Tamil Nadu to submit probe details in Cauvery sand mining case

The Supreme Court of India has mandated the Tamil Nadu government to provide detailed reports concerning the investigation into illegal sand mining activities linked to the Cauvery River. This directive follows a report from the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which highlighted an estimated loss of ₹4,700 crore due to alleged illicit sand mining operations in the state. The court's decision underscores the growing concerns about environmental degradation and regulatory compliance in resource extraction practices. The ED's findings point to significant financial irregularities and potential violations of environmental laws, prompting the court to seek clarity on the status of ongoing investigations and any filed First Information Reports (FIRs). The ruling aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of natural resources, a critical issue in Tamil Nadu, where sand mining has been a contentious topic due to its impact on local ecosystems and communities. The state's response to this mandate will be closely watched, as it may set a precedent for environmental governance and regulatory enforcement in India.