As per a recent memorandum of the Environment Ministry, henceforth non-coal mining project developers need not show proof of land acquisition for Environmental Clearance (EC). Till now the consent from landowners was mandated to obtain an EC but the non-coal mining Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) in its wisdom has delinked land acquisition from EC. The EAC found that many mining projects have started after grant of EC although land procurement was in progress. EAC mentions that documents regarding land acquisition may not be practical hence, should not be insisted to get an EC. Does this imply that “illegal” mining thrives or may get a boost? In the absence of proper ownership documents and permission from the landowners, how can miners bulldoze their way with just an EC? The land may already be under dispute between several owners. After mining begins, if the possession is challenged and land is reverted to the original owners, then they would be burdened with a ravaged and useless piece of terrain. The EAC should withdraw the recommendation else land sharks could misuse EAC’s new rule and apply for an EC under the pretext of mining for non-coal minerals.
