Fri Dec 26 15:05:42 UTC 2025: News Article:
Hooda Accuses Haryana Government of Aravalli “Loot,” Demands Affidavit Release
GURUGRAM, December 26, 2025 (The Hindu e-Paper) – Congress leader Deepender Hooda has launched a scathing attack on the Haryana government, accusing it of attempting to “loot” the country’s resources through flawed arguments regarding mining regulations in the Aravalli hills.
Speaking at a press conference today, Hooda criticized the Central government’s latest guidelines on the Aravallis as an “eyewash,” claiming the public will not tolerate the exploitation of the region. He specifically targeted the Centre’s 100-meter definition for mining restrictions, calling it unjustified and pointing to the Supreme Court’s rejection of similar arguments in the past. He also noted the Supreme Court’s empowered committee has rejected the 100-meter limit as well.
“We will not allow the government to loot,” Hooda declared, emphasizing the public’s rejection of the proposed parameter. He argued that the government’s actions represent a “backdoor attempt to sacrifice the environment for corruption.”
Hooda also demanded that the Haryana government make public the affidavit it submitted to the Supreme Court on the Aravalli issue. He stated the current order prohibiting new mining leases is merely a nominal compliance with previous court orders.
The Congress leader further accused the government of prioritizing short-term gains over environmental protection, especially during a period of severe air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region. He argued that instead of relaxing mining regulations, the government should be focusing on large-scale reforestation efforts in the Aravalli region.
Hooda highlighted the ongoing illegal mining and construction of farmhouses in the Aravallis, accusing big real estate companies of exploiting the area. He referenced a Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report that allegedly revealed a ₹5,000 crore scam resulting from illegal mining in the state.
The controversy surrounding the Aravalli hills remains a contentious issue, raising concerns about environmental protection, illegal mining, and government transparency.
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