Karnataka government extends mining probe team tenure

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Cabinet has decided to extend the tenure of the special investigation team probing illegal mining activities in the state for another year. This extension comes as 113 mining export cases are still pending review, while six cases are under investigation.

In eight cases, further investigation under CrPC 173 (8) is required, and two cases are currently under a stay order from the High Court. The committee’s report on ore valuation is also awaited.

Law Minister H.K. Patil, addressing the media after the Cabinet meeting, confirmed the decision to extend the team’s mandate until July 1, 2024. He stated that the government has already recovered Rs 29,000 crore from illegal mining activities over the past decade, and the extension will allow further progress on unresolved cases.

The Cabinet also approved an extension order for the special investigation team (SIT) under the Karnataka Lokayukta, effective from July 1, 2024.

Appointments to State Law Commission Soon

Minister Patil also announced that a new Chairman and members will soon be appointed to the Karnataka Law Commission, as the previous commission’s tenure has concluded. The authority to make these appointments has been entrusted to the Chief Minister, who will make the selections promptly.

₹13.75 Crore Approved for Anganwadi Workers’ Uniforms

In another major decision, the Cabinet approved ₹13.75 crore for the distribution of uniforms to Anganwadi workers and assistants. Approximately 1.35 lakh workers and assistants will benefit from this initiative.