Karnataka: Former minister Gali Janardhana Reddy sentenced to 7 years in illegal mining case

In a significant legal development, former Karnataka Minister and Gangavathi MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy has been sentenced to seven years in prison after being found guilty in the infamous Obalapuram illegal mining case. The verdict was delivered by the CBI Special Court in Hyderabad, marking a major milestone in the high-profile investigation that has spanned over a decade.

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The case pertains to large-scale illegal iron ore mining allegedly carried out by the Obalapuram Mining Company (OMC), owned by Reddy, in the Bellary region bordering Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Investigators had accused Reddy of operating without valid licenses, encroaching on forest land, and causing extensive environmental damage.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which took over the probe following national outrage over illegal mining, presented detailed evidence linking Reddy to illicit mining operations that violated multiple mining and environmental regulations.

Announcing the sentence, the CBI special court held that Reddy’s actions amounted to criminal conspiracy, cheating, and violation of mining laws. Along with the prison term, the court has also imposed fines on the former minister, further tightening the noose on illegal mining operations in the region.

This ruling marks a significant blow to Reddy’s political career and comes as a stern message against corruption and environmental violations by those in power.

Legal experts expect further appeals, but the conviction sends a strong signal of accountability.