Madhya Pradesh High Court issues notices to State over Illegal mining allegations against JK Cement
The Madhya Pradesh High Court has directed the government to provide answers and send notices to 10 other individuals and entities for alleged illegal mining and encroachment of land for JK Cement in Amanganj area in the Panna district.
The complaints say the company trespassed upon a school property and the government and some local farmers before conducting mining operations. The case was heard after protests from residents and activists about the alleged violations.
A resident of Panna district, Ankit Pathak had raised concerns regarding the issue. After complaints about the alleged encroachment and mining were received, a petition was filed by the local residents and activists, stating that the authorities had not taken any appropriate action.
Noting the matter, the High court directed for the explanations from the State government and other respondent in relation to the allegations. The court has called for their reply before Oct. 26.
The court also has called for information regarding the measures, if any, that the government has taken since complaints were received from the local community. The proceedings emphasize the authorities’ reply to these allegations and whether or not suitable measures were taken to act on them.
There are concerns regarding land use for mining activities that was previously said to be owned by public institutions and farmers. These claims may pertain to ownership of land, mining rights, and any applicable rules and laws.
But given the information available, allegations against JK Cement would not prove to be a violation per se. The notifications issued by the High Court do not itself amount to a finding of any wrongdoing; it invites the parties to reply in that regard.
The state government and the other respondents will have to argue their case before the court within the stipulated time. The future of the action will depend on the answers that are filed and whether they are reviewed by the court.