Odisha government denies information on allegations of lowering grade of ore to evade royalty
RTI activists allege a possible nexus between mining lessees and officials to derail probes and waive or drastically reduce penalties
RTI activists have raised concerns over the government's refusal to disclose information related to show-cause notices issued to mining lessees in Odisha’s Kendujhar district. The activists allege that these lessees manipulated the grades of iron and manganese ore to evade royalty payments. The Directorate of Mines and Geology denied providing the requested information, citing the ongoing investigation.
However, the activists argue that withholding the information undermines the investigation process. They point out that similar show-cause notices were issued in the past, leading to significant penalties being collected. The activists suggest that the current secrecy may be an attempt to protect unscrupulous officials from facing accountability.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
