HC clamps down on mining in sanctuary

INDAL had obtained the mining rights for a period of 30 years from 1968 to 1998 in Iderganj area of Radhanagari tehsil. The total leased area was about 777hectares. But during the last 30 years INDAL undertook only some preliminary work. The petition had argued that since no mining activity were carried out the lease had lapsed under Section 4A4 of the Mines and Minerals Regulation amp; Development Act, 1957. However, the issue acquired a new dimension in 1985 when the leased area came under the Sanctuary and was declared as a reserved forest.

In September 1997 the petition was disposed of by the Court following an assurance by the company that no mining would be carried out in Iderganj without Government permission. However, in December 1997 the company began mining operation near Iderganj, sparking off the controversy entailing a legal suit.