Shah panel unlikely to meet deadline, rejects any other probe

Ruling out any other independent probe to detect political patronage of alleged illegal mining activities in Odisha, Justice M B Shah Commission of Inquiry today said it was unlikely to meet the July 16 deadline for submitting its final report.
"It is very difficult to say in the present day situation to meet the deadline. This because .. The reason is repeated hearing and disputed facts," Justice M B Shah told reporters while winding up the five-day hearing here.
Stating that the commission had an exhaustive hearing and a large number of mine lessees were heard, he said: "After hearing, we will decide in which way to prepare the report."

The commission during its five day hearing also heard legal points raised by lessees through their lawyers. "We heard law points in regard to forest, environment clearance and encroachment. The commission has set up a committee to verify mining lease area and the lessees will pay the amount of Rs 4 lakh per square kilometre with minimum charge of Rs 2.5 lakh per square kilometre," he said.
"After verification, we will pass orders suggesting the centre to take action in this regard," Justice Shah said adding above 40 mines boundaries would be verified through commission appointed committees.
Asked about the time limit for completion of field verification, Justice Shah said it may require some time. One field may take 5 to 6 days on continuous work.

Replying a question on whether the commission will recommend an independent probe into alleged political patronage in the mining activities in the state, Justice Shah said:"Nobody has given any evidence before the commission. Let them (people who make allegation) give evidence. Unless somebody

gives evidence either orally or in writing, what can be done."
"There is no question of asking any agency to probe into it. Our report will be final. Let us see what action the central government takes. We cannot prejudge," he said.
In comparison to illegal mining in Karnataka and Goa, Justice Shah said Odisha government has taken certain steps after appointment of the commission. "We will verify whether actions are required," he said.