Chhattisgarh's Dantewada Slaps Massive Penalty on NMDC for Alleged Mining Violations

The Dantewada district administration in Chhattisgarh has fined the National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) Rs 1,620.5 crore for reportedly breaching mining laws. This move, which NMDC has decried as inappropriate, stems from alleged iron ore transport violations. The NMDC plans to respond to the district collector's notice.

The administration in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district has imposed a substantial fine of Rs 1,620.5 crore on the National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) for allegedly violating mining laws, officials stated on Saturday.

Labeling the decision as ''completely inappropriate,'' NMDC contended that the penalty was enforced ''solely and blindly without considering the facts and circumstances in the case.''

NMDC's mining operations are situated in the Bailadila hills of Kirandul and the Bacheli area of Dantewada in the Bastar region. District authorities cited violations under sections of the Chhattisgarh Mineral Rules and the Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation Act, leading to the hefty penalty based on market value and mineral royalties. The NMDC, however, countered that it operates under valid legal permissions and has preemptively fulfilled royalty payments.

(With inputs from agencies.)