YSRCP slams MP Vemireddy’s mining monopoly in Nellore

Nellore, May 4: Former Minister Anil Kumar Yadav launched a blistering attack on MP Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy for his illegal quartz mining operations that have crippled the livelihoods of thousands. 
Speaking to media here on Sunday, Yadav clarified that he never distanced himself from the YSRCP or its workers, dismissing attempts to create rifts between him and party leader YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. “My loyalty to the party and its leader is unwavering.” 
He debunked malicious propaganda claiming he amassed thousands of crores through illegal mining, challenging detractors to provide evidence. “During the YSRCP regime, no mine owner complained against me, and mining thrived without disruption,” he stated. 
He accused the coalition government of halting mining operations under the guise of investigations, only to selectively reopen mines involved in alleged irregularities. Despite imposing Rs. 255 crore in penalties for illegal mining during the transition period post-elections, the government has failed to collect these dues, Yadav claimed, demanding accountability.
The former minister highlighted the closure of nearly 100 active mines out of 150–200 in Nellore, with only 30 selectively reopened. “Why are just 30 mines operational? The government must explain,” he demanded. 
This has slashed state revenue from ₹150 crore under YSRCP to less than ₹40 crore now, while pushing 10,000 families dependent on mining into economic distress. Hotels, tipper owners, and petrol pumps linked to the mining ecosystem have also collapsed. Yadav contrasted this with the YSRCP tenure, during which mine owners never resorted to courts. 
However, under the current regime, owners have filed contempt cases after the government ignored court orders to reopen mines by February 10, 2025.
Expressing solidarity with YSRCP district president Kakani Govardhan Reddy, who faces fabricated cases, Yadav vowed party support and condemned the coalition’s vindictive tactics. He also flagged rampant illegal mining on government land, including mines past their 50-year lease period, which the government has failed to seize. “Penalties from these violations could fund Amaravati’s construction,” he remarked, urging the government to auction quartz stocks to generate Rs. 500 crore in revenue.
Yadav announced immediate action, stating, “Tomorrow, I will lodge a complaint with the Collector against Vemireddy’s illegal activities, backed by evidence.” He demanded the government seize mines with expired leases and warned, “If no action is taken within five days, I will personally inspect the mining sites and launch a movement.” Vowing to pursue cases against Vemireddy, he challenged the MP to prove his innocence by allowing media inspections of mining sites. Notably, Yadav pointed out that over 70% of those affected by mining closures are TDP supporters, underscoring the issue’s widespread impact.
The Federation of Minor Minerals Industry (FEMI) and Manda Krishna Madiga’s MRPS have also urged the government to resume mining, citing losses to marginalized communities. Yadav called for equitable opportunities, warning, “If illegal mining benefits only a select few, I will lead protests to ensure justice for all.” He reaffirmed his commitment to protecting workers, mine owners, and Nellore’s citizens, declaring, “I will fight until Vemireddy is held accountable and every mine is reopened.”

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