Cong leader seeks Modi's intervention in mining scam probe

Slamming the Centre for not ordering a CBI probe into mining scam in Odisha despite Shah Commission's recommendation, senior Congress leader Srikant Jena today sought intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to get the scandal inquired by the premier agency.
"I am surprised to note that the Union Steel and Mines Minister feels there is no need for a CBI probe into the huge mining scam in Odisha. It is unfortunate that recommendation of Shah Commission is ignored," Jena told reporters here.
He said while the Shah Commission, in its report, referred to role of state government officials and others in the scam and therefore sought a CBI probe, the Union Minister stated there is no need for CBI to inquire the matter as state agencies are conducting an investigation.

"If CBI does not investigate into the matter, the whole truth pertaining to mining scam and involvement of many influential people will never come to light," the former Union Minister said.
Hitting out at Odisha government over mining scam, Jena said in the chitfund scandal, the government had claimed that no leaders including ministers and MLAs were involved, but when CBI started probing the matter, role of BJD leaders had come to fore.
Stating that mining operations were not confined only within state domain but spread to other areas too, Jena said, "I demand intervention of the Prime Minister into the matter to ensure a CBI probe into mining scam. If necessary, we will write to the Prime Minister stressing our demand."

At the same time, Jena asked state BJP leaders, who have also been demanding a CBI probe into mining scam, to mount pressure on the party-led government at the Centre to pave way for investigation by the premier agency.
Referring to chromite mines in Odisha, Congress leaders demanded cancellation of lease given to a handful of private companies and said the state should take control over these mines as it would bring huge profits.
On land scam and misuse of discretionary quota in allotment, Jena said criminal proceedings must be launched against those who had furnished false affidavits and got more than one plot or house.