Jabalpur | Amidst allegations of over-mining against mining companies linked to BJP MLA Sanjay Pathak in Jabalpur, the administration has issued a final notice for recovery of ₹443 crore. The notices have been sent to Anand Mining, Nirmala Minerals, and Pacific Exports, all of which are accused of extracting iron ore several times more than the approved limit. The matter is serious because Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav himself confirmed the fine in the Assembly, causing a stir in both the political and mining sectors.
The department submitted a detailed 467-page report to the administration, which revealed widespread excavation discrepancies based on satellite images, DGPS mapping, and an examination of the dispatch register. According to the report, excavation exceeded the permitted area by eight to ten times. Based on this, a final notice was issued on November 10th, under the direction of Jabalpur Collector Raghavendra Singh. MLA Sanjay Pathak’s companies requested calculation basis documents in response, which the department has provided.
Officials say that the next step will be decided only after receiving a response to the notice, but if a satisfactory response is not received within the stipulated timeframe, confiscation proceedings will be initiated. The Mining Department is also preparing to issue a RRC soon. The administration clearly states that the irregularities found on such a large scale cannot be ignored. This action has also raised concerns among many businessmen involved in the mining business, as this is the first time such a large penalty has been imposed on companies owned by a ruling party MLA.
MLA Sanjay Pathak has remained silent on the matter so far, further fueling speculation. The government’s strong action against its own party MLA has further thrust the matter into the spotlight. All eyes are now on how swiftly and impartially the administration takes further action. This case has not only become a focus of political debate but is also raising new questions about the monitoring and regulation of mining activities in the state.
