Ex-IAS Officer Who Exposed Tamil Nadu Granite Scam Seeks Protection
A retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, U Sagayam, who exposed a massive illegal granite mining scam in Tamil Nadu, has raised an alarm about potential threats to his life. Following the withdrawal of his security by the Tamil Nadu government in May 2023, Sagayam has expressed concerns about his safety, citing death threats he received after his investigations.
Exposing the ₹1 Lakh Crore Granite Scam
Sagayam was appointed by the Madras High Court in 2014 as Special Officer to investigate illegal granite mining in Tamil Nadu. His investigation uncovered a widespread mining mafia that operated in the Melur area of Madurai district for decades, causing a staggering loss of over ₹1 lakh crore to the government exchequer. In November 2015, Sagayam submitted a detailed report of over 600 pages to the High Court, which revealed the extensive nature of the illegal operations. However, his efforts to bring the issue to light faced delays until social activists helped expose the matter to the public, leading to legal actions and cases being filed.
Security Withdrawn and Threats Escalate
Sagayam was provided with armed security from 2016 until May 2023, but the state government decided to withdraw his protection last year. He fears for his life following this decision, particularly after receiving two disturbing death threats. The threats indicated that he and his family could be harmed, with specific references to being thrown into the mines—a grim reminder of the risks he faces for his role in exposing the scam.
In his letters to the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court and other authorities, Sagayam highlighted the murders of other whistleblowers and social activists, including Jagabar Ali and Zakir Hussain, who were killed for their efforts to expose corruption and illegal activities in the state. Sagayam expressed his concern that the growing power of the mafia and criminal networks could lead to further violence against whistleblowers.
Legal and Administrative Challenges
Sagayam criticized the police officers responsible for withdrawing his security, calling their decision biased and unfair. He argued that they failed to consider the serious risks associated with his investigation into the granite mining scandal, which had far-reaching consequences for the state and its governance. Despite raising the issue with the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, Sagayam claims there has been no meaningful response or action to restore his protection.
He further pointed out the disheartening reality that whistleblowers, social activists, and law-abiding citizens who fight against corruption are living under constant fear and threats. The recent murders of activists, he noted, illustrate the dangerous environment in which those working to expose corruption are operating.
Call for Protection and Justice
In light of the growing threats and his inability to safely provide evidence in court, Sagayam has requested that the authorities take immediate action to ensure his safety. He stressed the importance of protecting those who stand up for justice, as their work often involves exposing powerful criminal networks with significant political and economic influence.
Sagayam’s situation highlights the dangerous challenges faced by whistleblowers and social activists who expose corruption and fraud, and serves as a reminder of the need for stronger safeguards to protect those working to uphold the rule of law.