Mining issue generates heat

Replying to a call attention motion on the alleged flouting of rules while granting mining permits in Bellary, Home Minister V S Acharya defended saying that all permits were being granted in accordance to rules.

Unhappy with this reply, Congress leader K C Kondaiah alleged that permits are being given only to companies with political clout. At this juncture Tourism Minister Janardhan Reddy made a remark against Kondaiah, raising tempers in the Opposition bench. A free-for-all followed, with members on both the sides exchanging insults freely. The Chairman’s efforts to intervene was in vain. The Opposition refused to resume business unless an apology was tendered by Reddy. Only after the Chairman admonished the Minister, the opposition members calmed down.

Kondaiah further alleged that several companies which had fallen out of favour under the new Government were finding it difficult to obtain permits to transport minerals.
On the issue of allowing mining in reserve forests, Acharya defended the decision stating that the 6 blocks of forest area in Bellary, Mysore and Shimoga districts had been identified by the Congress earlier in 2003, and BJP was merely acting on the same. The Government took this decision only after ascertaining that none of these forest areas was under tree cover. “If there is a source of rich minerals in the state, don't the people deserve to enjoy its benefits?” he questioned.

In the assembly, CM Yeddyurappa that the government is awaiting the consent of the forest department to permit mining in the land allotted to Kudremukh Iron Ore Company Limited. Replying to a call attention tabled by M P Kumaraswamy (BJP), the CM said the Centre has permitted mining by KIOCL in Hombala Ghatta and Hosahalli villages in CN halli, Tumkur in an area of 116.55 ha. The State can allow mining only if the forest department gives permission. The consent is awaited, he said.
DH News Service