BELLARY: The State unit of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) CPI (M), while demanding an inquiry into illegal mining activities by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), has urged the Union Government to come out with a mineral policy. Addressing presspersons here on Monday, G.N. Nagaraj, CPI(M) general secretary, said that a thorough inquiry by the CBI was necessary in wake of reports of illegal mining activities and the involvement of influential persons. Referring to the recent raid on Vyasanakere Mines of MSPL near Hospet by a mob, he said it was an indication that an "industrial mafia" was gaining ground. Mr. Nagaraj was of the view that the absence of a mining policy was the reason for large-scale illegal mining. He said the profits from mining were going to a few families. In order to stop this, he urged the Union Government to come out with a policy, which would provide employment youth, ensure production of steel and prevent the sale of mineral ore as a raw material.

He also wanted the mining policy to restrict the quantum of ore extraction and ensure that revenue from exports go to the Union and State government exchequer.

Mr. Nagaraj, while urging the State Government to publish the report on illegal mining, condemned the Government's failure to act on the report and curb such activities.

He urged the State Government to form a task force to check illegal mining. Mr. Nagaraj said the State Government should shoulder the responsibility of setting up public sector undertakings to make best use of the mineral resources in the State. He criticised the police for failing to prevent the attack on the mines by the mob.

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