Odisha mining scam: CM orders vigilance probe, SIT formed

Bhubaneswar: In response to widespread reports of illegal mining in Sundargarh district, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has ordered a Vigilance investigation into the matter.
The probe will focus on the extensive unlawful extraction and trading of minerals in Hemagiri and Koida tehsils.
To facilitate a thorough investigation, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed by the Vigilance department.
Earlier, Minister for Steel and Mines, Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, had visited the sites of illegal mining operations along with departmental officials. Following his field inspection, he submitted a report to the Chief Minister and discussed the seriousness of the issue.
“The government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against corruption, and those involved in illegal mining, no matter their position, will be held accountable,” CM Majhi has asserted on multiple occasions.
Illegal Coal Mining in Hemagiri Tehsil
Reports indicate that in Hemgiri tehsil alone, illegal coal extraction exceeding 9,843 metric tonnes has taken place across 22 mines, with an estimated market value of over ₹2 crore. The illegal operations were concentrated in:
• 14 mines in Gopalpur village
• 3 mines in Ratansora village
• 5 mines in Bhogarachachar village
Most of these mining sites fall under forest land categories. Notably, there have also been unlicensed coal storage activities reported near Jamkani reserved forest and Bhogarachachar village.
Massive Illegal Manganese and Iron Ore Mining in Koida
The situation in Koida tehsil appears even more severe. Investigations have uncovered illegal extraction of manganese and iron ore from around 50 mines located in:
• 16 mines in Patabeda village
• 10 mines in Malda village
• 20 mines in Kolmang village
• 4 mines across Sanputuli and Rusibenua villages
From these sites, more than 20,000 metric tonnes of manganese ore and over 1,200 metric tonnes of iron ore have reportedly been extracted illegally. The estimated total value of the illegally mined ore exceeds ₹37 crore.
Strict Action Promised
Minister Jena emphasized that the government is treating the matter with utmost seriousness and assured that strict legal action would be taken against all involved.
“No one will be spared—everyone responsible will be identified and prosecuted as per the law,” he said.
The Vigilance-led SIT will now begin detailed investigations into the mining scam, which spans protected forest areas and multiple villages, potentially involving deep-rooted corruption and environmental violations.