Rights groups demand overhaul of Aravalli panel hearings

The Story in Brief

Rajasthan civil rights groups have demanded a complete overhaul of the Supreme Court-appointed high-powered committee's hearing process on the Aravalli hill range, alleging it excludes affected communities. The People's Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) and other organisations say the committee's four-day, nine-district tour is a 'token' exercise. They claim the mining lobby dominated hearings, particularly in Ajmer, where many mining operators were reportedly brought in to participate. The groups have sought a transparent process, a comprehensive study of all Aravalli districts, and direct assessments of mining-affected communities, including silicosis patients.

The rights bodies also criticised the committee's composition, noting its chairperson and two members are from the same department that earlier recommended only hills over 100 metres be considered part of the Aravallis. They have demanded the committee's tenure be extended and field visits to rural and mining-affected areas be conducted. The organisations warned that if the panel fails to ensure genuine participation, they will organise their own public hearings across the Aravalli region.