Shah Commission's third report on Goa illegal mining soon

The third and final report of the M B Shah Commission, which is probing illegal mining activity in Goa, would be submitted as early as possible, the retired justice heading the panel, said.

He said the Commission, which was appointed on November 22, 2010, is in the process of winding up its inquiry.     "We will submit the third report as early as possible," Justice Shah said.  The Commission's term ends on October 15 and it has already submitted two reports based on which the Supreme Court had imposed a temporary ban on mining activity in Goa, the largest exporter of iron-ore in the country.

Shah said aspects which would be covered by the Commission in the third report would be declared subsequently.

Sources said the third report would be crucial as it will dwell upon the financial transactions and losses through illegal mining from 2006-2011.

The Commission enquired into the bank transactions of exporters, traders and mining lease owners, to track down the exact financial transaction. The state government has already suspended its former Director of Mines and Geology, Arvind Lolienkar for his alleged involvement in the illegal mining scam.

Two different cases have also been filed, one with the local crime branch and another with Lokayukta, in connection with the illegal mining scam which is pegged at Rs 35,000 crore.