Parrikar to table illegal mining report on 5 Oct
PTI, PANAJI | 23 September 2011 17:52 IST
The Manohar Parrikar-led Public Accounts Committee (PAC), investigating the increasing phenomenon of illegal mining in Goa, would be tabling its report on 0ctober 5 when the two-day State Legislative Assembly session begins here.
Leader of Opposition Parrikar said he would table the report on the first day itself in the House ahead of the Central government-appointed Shah Commission which is expected to give its report in one-and-a half month.
According to sources, the PAC report speaks in detail about the illegal mining trade in Goa and points to exchequer losses on this account which could be somewhere between Rs 1,200-10,000 crore.
"The final report is ready but has been kept under wraps as it cannot be made public before presenting it to Speaker's office or tabling during the session," sources said.
The investigations by PAC (constituted by Goa Assembly) are based on the Comptroller Auditor General (CAG) report which had pointed out that from 2003-2005, almost one crore tones of Iron Ore was exported from Goa evading royalty.
The Committee has already sought data from state mines and geology and forest departments on the matter, which has pointed out to the large-scale irregularities in mining trade.
Meanwhile, the Shah Commission probe is still midway. The commission members are investigating into each and every mining lease in the state.
Sources said that almost 75 per cent of the total 90 mining leases in the state have been inspected by eight teams which are currently camping in the state.
During its initial investigations, the commission has already asked state mines and geology department to act against eight mines which were found to be working in violation of various laws.
In view of the seriousness and gravity of the Illegal Mining fiasco, it would be more appropriate to have an extra few days of the Legislature sittings.Just 2 days is just about enough for MLA`s to finish their subsidised Tea & Biscuits or Bhaji & Puri. Equally important will be the Lokpal Bill.However knowing the methods of the Ruling Congress Party, serious Business affecting Goa will be delayed or postponed.Mr Kamat has far better business of a personal nature and his personal survival, with the Congress High Command in New Delhi.