NGO to submit report copy to SC

The intention behind submitting the report to the Supreme Court is to bring to book those responsible for illegal mining using their clout and money power. They were also responsible for the collapse of the democratic system in the district, Hiremath said.

He welcomed the order of the Supreme Court banning mining in the district in the light of the damage caused to the forests and environment. The court is hearing a public interest litigation on illegal mining.

Adverse affect
Hiremath agreed that the ban on mining would adversely affect the workers in the mining industry and their dependents. He suggested the mine owners, who earn crores of rupees, to provide relief to the workers amounting to the wages for at least 100 work days per year. One can imagine the earnings of those involved in illegal mining, given that the dues to the Government are Rs 16,000 crore, according to the Lokayukta report.

Hiremath demanded that the report should be taken seriously, money earned by the mine owners should be seized and stress must be laid on afforestation.

Meet tomorrow
A meeting of environment experts, scientists, social workers and others concerned will be held in Dharwad on August 1, to discuss the consequences of the ban on mining in the district and the solutions.

The issue of developing agriculture land in the vicinity of the mining areas will also be discussed. Workers in the mining industry will be motivated to take up farming activities, he explained.