JOIN USActing Chief Justice Vikramajit Sen and Justice A S Bopanna ordered the notice during the hearing on a PIL that questioned the Governor’s order.
The Lokayukta, in its first report on illegal mining submitted in 2009 held Dharam Singh responsible for causing loss of Rs. 23 crore to the exchequer, by issuing permits to transporters in violation of the Mines and Minerals (development and regulations) Act 1957.
On July 2, 2005, Singh granted permits for lifting ore despite the Department of Mines and Geology and Department of Forests Ecology and Environment advising against it.
The Lokayukta report part one submitted in December 18, 2008 held him guilty of misconduct and causing loss to the state by acting contrary to the law.
“By giving illegal permits for transportation of minerals mined illegally, Dharam Singh has been responsible for causing loss of Rs. 23,22,11,850 to the State. Action not only amounts for misconduct, but also establishes that he has abused his position. Loss can be recovered as damage from him.” the report stated.
The petitioner, D Natesh, a resident of Bangalore stated that though the report suggested that the governor take action to recover the loss caused to exchequer, no action was recommended and the R2 has acted contrary to the law. Stating that the R2 acted indifferently by stating that there is no material to show Singh obtained to himself any valuable.
Pointing out that the Governor’s letter dated December 18, 2008 by Thakur stating that Singh’s decision was carried out and implemented when he had ceased to be a Chief Minister and during the reign of successor government, the petitioner has sought to recover the loss of amount caused to exchequer.