Central Empowered Committee Flags Violations in Karnataka Mining Auctions

May 26, 2025

The Central Empowered Committee (CEC), appointed by the Supreme Court, has raised serious concerns over recent mining auctions conducted by the Karnataka government. In a letter addressed to the state’s Chief Secretary, the CEC highlighted significant violations, including unauthorized alterations to mining lease boundaries and the inclusion of approximately 200 acres of virgin forest land into four different mining blocks without obtaining the necessary court approvals .

Background: A History of Mining Irregularities

Karnataka’s mining sector has been under scrutiny for over a decade due to widespread illegal activities. In 2013, the Supreme Court canceled 49 mining leases categorized as ‘Category C’ for flagrant violations of the Forest (Conservation) Act and other regulations. These leases, spread over 1,914 hectares, had collectively encroached upon an additional 895 hectares of land .

The CEC’s earlier reports criticized the state machinery for allowing rampant unauthorized and environmentally unsustainable mining practices. The committee noted that valuable public natural resources were exploited for maximum profit without ensuring commensurate benefits to society or regard for inter-generational equity .

Current Concerns: Unauthorized Forest Land Inclusion

The recent letter from the CEC points out that the Karnataka government made arbitrary changes to mining lease boundaries, incorporating 200 acres of untouched forest area into mining blocks without the Supreme Court’s concurrence. Such actions not only violate legal protocols but also pose significant threats to the environment and biodiversity .

Implications and Recommendations

The CEC’s observations suggest a potential repeat of past mistakes that led to environmental degradation and legal repercussions. The committee emphasized the need for transparent and lawful procedures in mining operations to prevent further ecological harm and ensure sustainable resource management.

In light of these violations, the CEC may recommend:

• Immediate cessation of mining activities in the affected blocks.

• Legal action against responsible officials and entities.

• Restoration of the encroached forest areas.

• Implementation of stricter monitoring mechanisms for future auctions.

The CEC’s recent findings underscore the importance of adhering to legal and environmental guidelines in mining operations. As Karnataka continues to navigate the complexities of resource management, it is imperative for the state to prioritize ecological sustainability and legal compliance to prevent further degradation and uphold public trust.