In a move that could make it easier to crack down on unaccounted (benami) properties acquired by mining barons inside and outside the State, the government is considering arming the special investigation team (SIT) that is looking into illegal mining, with powers to attach benami properties.
A Cabinet committee, headed by Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister H.K. Patil set up to oversee the progress of the SIT, is discussing the possibility of amending the existing legislation to accord more teeth to the team.
When The Hindu contacted Mr. Patil, he said: “It is difficult to spell out the details on the plan to amend the existing legislation.” Most benami properties are suspected to have been acquired through proceeds from illegal transportation of iron ore, between 2006 and 2010. If more power is given to the SIT, it could mean tackling jailed mining baron G. Janardhan Reddy. Given the political pressure involved in bringing in a legislation against the mining barons, the government is mulling taking the ordinance route to ensure minimum delay, said to sources.
