"We are returning from Odisha tomorrow. So far we have examined at least 80 mining cases during the second phase of investigation," said U V Singh, the team leader of Shah Commission and Principal Conservator of Forest in Karnataka.
Singh and members of the team met Odisha government Development commissioner and other senior officers here before winding up the second phase of investigation.
Asked about the possible interim report on the mining scam in the state, Singh said "We have not so far completed one aspect of the investigation of all the mines. Therefore, there is no point in giving any interim report now. Let us complete the process."
The commission which had sought records and documents of 186 iron ore and manganese mines in the state, during the second phase of investigation, has also raised certain questions on the mining activities within 10 km radius of the Similipal Biosphere, sources said.
Though at least eight iron ore mines were allowed to different companies for mining within 10 km radius of the Similipal Biosphere, only three were in operational stage, said director of mines of Odisha government Deepak Mohanty.
"The mining companies in the Similipal region have been asked to obtain requisite permission from the Central Wildlife Authority for continuing mining activities," Mohanty said. More
