DMO Ganderbal Attached Over Illegal Mining Complaints

Umar Raina
Comments 0
12 May 2026

Ganderbal, May 11: The Directorate of Geology and Mining, Jammu and Kashmir, has attached District Mineral Officer (DMO) Ganderbal Murtaza Bashir Bhat, pending an inquiry into his alleged non-performance, absence during the visit of senior dignitaries, and complaints regarding illegal mining activities in the district.

According to Order No. 86-JK(DGM) of 2026 dated May 10, 2026, issued by Director Geology and Mining J&K, Sh. Murtaza Bashir Bhat, a chemist serving as District Mineral Officer Ganderbal, has been attached to the CMT Laboratory Budgam with immediate effect.

The order stated that the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Deputy Chief Minister and other senior dignitaries visited Ganderbal district on May 10 to inspect various developmental works. During the visit, it was allegedly observed that the officer was not present with the visiting dignitaries at several inspection locations despite being informed in advance by the Directorate to remain available throughout the programme.

The order further noted that the officer was telephonically instructed again to accompany the visiting officials at all locations, but he allegedly failed to comply with the directions.

Authorities also cited multiple complaints received from the general public as well as various government executing agencies regarding his “poor performance.” In addition, the department acknowledged receiving several complaints pertaining to “rampant illegal mining” in district Ganderbal.

“Pending inquiry into his conduct and non-performance, Murtaza Bashir Bhat shall remain attached in the CMT Laboratory Budgam and shall not leave the station without prior permission of the competent authority,” the order reads.

Meanwhile, the Directorate has assigned additional charge of District Mineral Office Ganderbal to Sh. Gh. Nabi Pintoo (Gg-III), District Mineral Officer Bandipora, who will look after the routine functioning of the office in addition to his existing duties until further orders.

The order has been issued by Director, Geology and Mining J&K, Pawar Kumar Sharma (JKAS).