Introduction:

In W.P.(C) No. 562/2009, the Supreme Court addressed a public interest litigation concerning illegal iron ore mining in Karnataka, filed by Samaj Parivartana Samudaya and others. The Court, comprising Justices Sanjiv Khanna, MM Sundresh, and Bela M Trivedi, directed the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests of Karnataka to conduct a detailed scrutiny and survey of Category A/B/C mines in Bellary, Chitradurga, and Tumkur districts. The aim was to assess the status of mines for which rehabilitation and reclamation (R&R) plans had not been submitted/approved.

Arguments of Both Sides:

The petitioners raised concerns about illegal mining activities and environmental harm in Karnataka’s districts. The Court had previously imposed bans and production ceilings based on reports from the Centrally Empowered Committee (CEC) and Indian Council of Forest Research and Education (ICFRE). The respondents included the State of Karnataka and mining operators.

Court’s Judgement:

The Supreme Court directed the PCCF to scrutinize the mines and ensure R&R plans’ implementation, with expenses to be borne by former lease holders. The CEC, Monitoring Committee, and Oversight Authority were tasked with conducting a comprehensive survey and submitting a report within four months. Parameters from a 2012 report were to be considered, and the CEC could enlist scientific experts for assistance. The Court also contemplated imposing mining caps, implementing e-auction systems, and utilizing satellite mappings/images.