Goa's miners want all data studied before deciding illegality

Panaji, Sept 29: The iron ore mining industry in Goa said that it would not be proper to reach conclusion about illegality of any deal till all the data is studied and explanation sought from the concerned party.

The industry has also pointed out that while negatives about the industry were being highlighted, the contribution of the industry to the state's economy has been ignored.

While welcoming the appointment of Shah Commission to investigate alleged irregularities in mining trade, Goa Mineral Ore Exporters Association, an umbrella organisation of ore exporters, said it was hopeful that justice would be delivered by the commission.

The association said that the conclusions about illegality or irregularities in iron ore mining should not be drawn before all the data is studied and an opportunity given to the respective lessee, exporter or trader to give his explanation.

"We are disappointed that some negatives are highlighted without speaking any of the positive contribution of the industry to the economy and society," the spokesman for the association said.

Illegal mining has become a major issue in the state and Shah Commission appointed by the Centre is conducting an enquiry amid reports that the tax evasion by the industry runs into hundreds of crores of rupees.

The association which has almost all the big time exporters as its members, has said that a better state-of-the art-system to track and tally ore production with ore sales and exports would go a long way to bring clarity and plug revenue leakages, if any.

PTI