The Supreme Court appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC), looking into the aspects of illegal mining in Odisha, has been provided with all information including that on shareholding of various lease holders by the State authorities.
But whether the information would make its way into its report to be submitted to the Supreme Court remains to be seen.
The report is expected to be submitted to the Supreme Court shortly.
“The Supreme Court had directed the CEC to look into all issues raised in the Justice MB Shah Commission report on illegal mining in Odisha. All information sought by the CEC has been given, including information on shareholdings,” a person in the know said.
The person added that information on Jindal Steel and Power building conveyor belts and water supply pipeline in the leased area given to Sarada Mining Private Ltd has also been provided.
Interestingly, on technical grounds the CEC cannot look into transfer of shares/shareholding issues as it does not have the mandate. However, during investigations the agencies do cross their mandates, another person associated with the development said.
CEC was formed to investigate the environment and forest violations, while the Special Investigation Team has been looking into other violations.
Already, the Shah Commission, in its report, had noted that the relation between Sarada Mining and JSPL is not a coincidence but a “well planned move” by Sarada Mining, JSPL and the State Government to acquire the lease for the Thakurani A and B mining region.
The findings are in the Second Report on Illegal Mining in Odisha, which has been made public through the Ministry of Mines’ website.
Not only does the Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation Act, 1957 prohibit sub-letting of mining lease, it also prohibits sub-letting of land to third parties for construction of any related structure. The Commission had observed that most mining companies have evolved a concept and handed over mining operations to middlemen called – rising contractors.
Of the 192 mining leases in the State, 84 mines were given to rising contractors, it pointed out. All 192 mining leases are operated/run by 79 individuals /families/companies/firms.