Rs 72 crore recovery drive against mine owner begins in Odisha

The Mayurbhanj district administration on Friday carried out a raid at the residence and properties of a mine owner in Badampahar as part of a recovery process linked to pending mining-related dues running into crores of rupees.

Officials from the tehsil administration, mining department and police jointly conducted the operation at properties linked to Basanta Das of Kasiabeda village under Rairangpur subdivision. The team reached the spot in the morning and began verification of the land and other assets.

Land, Assets Assessed During Raid

During the operation, officials assessed the value of the mine owner’s house, land and other properties. Sources said some land parcels were also taken into the administration’s possession as part of the recovery proceedings.

Basanta Das was engaged in iron ore mining activities in the Badampahar region. The action is linked to a case involving alleged violations related to environmental clearance for mining operations.

Rs 36 Crore Penalty Rises To Rs 72 crore

According to official sources, proceedings were initiated against the mine owner in 2018 and a penalty of around Rs 36 crore was imposed.

However, the amount was not deposited. With interest accumulating over the years, the outstanding dues have now reportedly risen to around Rs 72 crore.

Recovery Process Underway

Officials said Friday’s action was part of the process to recover the pending amount. Revenue, mining and police personnel remained present during the operation and carried out an assessment of movable and immovable properties linked to the mine owner.

The administration is expected to continue the recovery process in the coming days as efforts are underway to realise the unpaid dues.