Fresh Mining Trouble Looms for Janardhana Reddy as Centre Seeks Action
The Union Environment Ministry has directed Karnataka authorities to examine alleged illegal mining and land encroachment linked to a company owned by former minister Janardhana Reddy near the Andhra Pradesh border.
Ballari: Former Karnataka minister and Gangavati MLA G Janardhana Reddy is once again facing scrutiny over alleged mining violations after the Union Environment Ministry asked the Karnataka Department of Mines and Geology to take appropriate action based on findings from a technical survey.
According to official communication, Obulapuram Mining Company, which is associated with Janardhana Reddy, is alleged to have encroached upon nearly 68.5 hectares of land within Karnataka along the Andhra Pradesh border. The matter came to light after technical surveys reportedly identified the disputed area.
The allegations relate to mining activities in the Vittalapura and Tumati villages of Sandur taluk in Ballari district. A superimposed survey sketch prepared by the Andhra Pradesh government in December 2025 is said to indicate that mining operations extended into Karnataka territory.
Authorities have also alleged that part of the mining activity took place in an area classified as protected forest under the Ballari Reserved Forest map prepared in 1896. If established, the operations could amount to violations of forest protection laws.
The latest developments follow a complaint submitted by mining businessman Tapal Ganesh, who sought recovery of approximately Rs 884 crore from Obulapuram Mining Company and its associated firms, including MBT, Hind Traders and N Ratnaiah. The complaint alleges financial liability arising from the reported illegal mining activities.
The Karnataka Department of Mines and Geology is expected to examine the findings and take further action in accordance with applicable laws. No official response from Janardhana Reddy or Obulapuram Mining Company has been reported regarding the latest allegations.
