Quick Summary: Karthik Raja wanted to dig gravel from a specific area but faced protests. The court ordered protection for him to continue his work.
Karthik Raja asked the Madras High Court to make the district officials take action against two people, Ashokan and Mani, who were allegedly causing trouble. Karthik had a legal agreement to dig gravel in Karuveppampatty Village, Namakkal District, but faced interference.
Karthik signed a Supplier Agreement on March 3, 2025. By June 30, 2025, the Assistant Director of Geology and Mines approved his contract, and the District Collector added some conditions. Everything was in line with the Tamil Nadu Minor Minerals Concession Rules, 1959.
"The petitioner has been granted permission by the District Collector for the removal of earth."
Work started on August 12, 2025. Just four days later, on August 16, villagers protested against the quarrying. This led to a news article in Dinakaran and other newspapers. Karthik claimed that Ashokan and Mani were behind the protests.
On August 17, 2025, the Assistant Director of Geology and Mines, along with the Tahsildar, checked the site. They found no violations. Karthik had removed 1,200 cubic meters of earth, well within his allowed limit.
Judge N. Anand Venkatesh decided that Karthik could continue his work. The court told the local authorities to make sure there were no disruptions. Police protection was also ordered if necessary.
"The 2nd and 3rd respondent shall ensure that the petitioner carries on with the quarry for the entire period without causing any disruption."
The court sided with Karthik, allowing him to continue his quarrying operations without interference.
