Deputy Director of Mines at Ranipet removed from office

The deputy director of the Directorate of Geology and Mines in Ranipet was suspended on Thursday over allegations that he demanded money from a quarry operator for relaxing mining norms.

In accordance with the official order, a copy of which is available with The Hindu, D. Mohan, Director of Geology and Mining, relieved E. Srinivasarao, Deputy Director (AD), Directorate of Geology and Mining, Ranipet with immediate effect.

Instead, A. Arumuganainar, Regional Joint Director of Geology and Mining (Villupuram) will hold the full additional charge of AD Geology and Mining for Ranipet district.

The order cited “administrative reasons” for relieving Mr. Srinivasarao of his duties. No functions have been assigned to it. Sources in the Department of Geology and Mining, located inside the sprawling Ranipet Collectorate complex, said the issue was related to an incident where the officer in question allegedly demanded ₹2,000 in cash from a quarry operator in the district to relax norms.

Unwilling to pay the bribe, the operator reportedly complained to the Ministry of Natural Resources, Minerals and Mines, which also includes the Department of Geology and Mines headed by Minister TK Prabhu. After the incident, the police officer was relieved of duty with immediate effect.

Published – 22 May 2026 00:08 IST