New Delhi/Jalandhar, September 19, 2013: The Central Bureau of Investigation has today arrested MLA of Karnataka in an ongoing investigation relating to alleged illegalities in the export of iron ore from the Belakiri Port.
According to the CBI Spokesperson, a case was registered by the CBI on the orders of the Supreme Court of India in Writ Petition (Civil), No. 562/2009 and connected matters, in which CBI has been directed to investigate the illegalities committed by various persons in the matter of export of iron ore from the Belekeri Port against the then DCF, Bellary;, the then Deputy Director of Mines & Geology Dept., Hospet ; a private firm and others under sections 120-B, 420, 379, 411 & 447 of IPC; u/s 13(2) r/w 13(1)(d) of PC Act 1988; u/s 21 r/w 4(1), 4(1)(A) & 23 of MMDR Act-1957 and u/s 24 of Karnataka Forest Act 1963
The allegations in brief as per the FIR were that, a private firm has exported about 9.86 lakh MT of iron ore through Belekeri Port between 01.01.2009 & 31.05.2010 and that out of the 9.86 lakh MT of iron ore, a substantial Portion was prima facie seen to be mined illegally in forest areas of Bellary and other places of Karnataka.
The same was allegedly transported to Belekeri port without the valid permits issued by the departments of Mines & Geology and the Department of Forest and also without payment of the required Royalty and Forest Development Tax. It has been further alleged that this was done in connivance and in conspiracy with the then DCF, Bellary & his subordinates, the then Dy. Director, Mines & Geology Department, Hospet and his subordinates, the Mining Lease Holders, Stockyardists, traders, transporters, unregistered dealers, stevedores and other public servants of various departments. The accused persons thus, caused a wrongful loss to the Government of Karnataka and corresponding gain to themselves.
During the custodial interrogation of some accused persons in the case, it has been revealed that MLA had allegedly negotiated with other accused persons, not only for the purchase of iron ore material, but also dispute regarding the quality of iron ore supplied.
The arrested MLA will be produced before the Special Judge for CBI cases Bangalore on 20.09.2013.