Mon Jan 12 16:00:50 UTC 2026: ### Illegal Quarrying Allegations Plague Tribal Rehabilitation Project in Aralam
The Story:
Allegations of illegal quarrying have surfaced at the Aralam farm in Kannur, where land was earmarked for tribal rehabilitation. The accusations center around the sourcing of stones for the construction of an elephant fence along the Aralam sanctuary. The Adivasi Dalit Munneta Samithi has called for a Vigilance probe, alleging that the Tribal Resettlement Development Mission (TRDM) site manager facilitated the violations. The controversy revolves around reported granite shortages for the ₹52-crore project, with accusations that quarrying occurred without necessary permits and at the expense of tribal housing land.
Key Points:
* The Adivasi Dalit Munneta Samithi accused the TRDM site manager of permitting illegal quarrying.
* Quarrying is allegedly taking place within a prohibited distance from the Aralam wildlife sanctuary.
* A similar quarrying attempt in 2006 was halted.
* The contractor allegedly quoted below the tender amount and is now using stones from an old granite protection wall while claiming funds for fresh granite procurement.
* Panchayat officials confirmed quarrying without a no-objection certificate and encroachment on tribal housing.
* TRDM officials deny quarrying, claiming only stone quality testing was undertaken.
* Aralam Farm managing director stated that no permission for quarrying or quality testing was granted and that the contract stipulated sourcing stones from outside.
Key Takeaways:
* The incident raises concerns about the protection of tribal lands and resources.
* Allegations of corruption and mismanagement within the TRDM could undermine tribal rehabilitation efforts.
* The incident highlights the conflict between development projects and environmental regulations.
* Lack of proper oversight and permitting processes contributed to the alleged illegal activities.
First Piper 