HC moved on handing over mining activity
PTI
BANGALORE, SEPT 16
The Karnataka High Court today ordered issue of notice to the Centre, State government and mining companies on a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking handing over of mining operations to government-owned undertakings.
The petition submitted that mineral wealth belongs to the entire nation and it was the bounden duty of the government to protect the natural resources.
The private mining companies had been exploiting natural resources, petitioner Arun Agarwal submitted before a bench comprising Chief Justice J S Khehar and Justice Abdul Nazir which, ordered issue of notices.
Meanwhile, continuing his arguments on a batch of writ petitions filed by 22 mine owners challenging the State’s order banning export of iron ore and suspension of issue of transport permits, Advocate General Ashok Haranahally submitted the State had powers to ban exports under the Mines and Minerals Regulation (Development) Act.
The Centre had no powers to ban export of iron ore under the MMRDA act, he said, rejecting the contention of the petitioners in this regard.
The hearing on the petitions was adjourned to tomorrow.
