NCP leader in Goa fined Rs 1.72 crore for illegal mining

Panaji, Jan 19 (PTI) Goa�s Mines and Geology Departmenthas initiated recovery proceedings against NationalistCongress Party�s national secretary Jitendra Deshprabhu, afterhe failed to pay the fine of Rs 1.72 crore for illegal mining.

The Department imposed fine on Deshprabhu last monthafter it found out that he was extracting iron ore illegallyfrom a quarry in Corgao village, 50 km from here.

"The accused has failed to pay the fine within seven daysof the notice, so we have applied to the revenue officer toinitiate recovery proceedings against him," a senior officialtold PTI today.

Revenue officers have power to attach property to recovergovernment dues.

The notice was issued under section 4 of the Mines andMinerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.

The inspection by the department revealed that 15,000metric tones of iron ore was lying at the site, and 506truckloads of ore had been transported away.

According to the department, ore was being transportedclandestinely, at night.

When contacted, Deshprabhu denied his involvement. "Theland belongs to me but not the quarry," he said, adding thathe had given the land to a contractor who had a validquarrying licence.

The department''s notice asks Deshprabhu to stop miningimmediately. Machinery at the site has been seized.