The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed the Karnataka Police’s special investigation team to probe allegations against former Chief Ministers N Dharam Singh and HD Kumaraswamy in the iron ore mining case, PTI reported. However, the bench, comprising Justice PC Ghose and Justice Fali Nariman, granted relief to former Karnataka Chief Minister SM Krishna in the case.
The apex court asked the SIT to submit a report within three months. All other courts, including the high court, have been restrained from passing any order in connection with the case.
Krishna, who had served as the chief minister between 1999 and 2004, was accused of illegally reserving forest land in Bellary district for iron-ore and manganese mining. However, in 2012, the Supreme Court had stayed a criminal investigation against him.
TJ Abraham, one of the complainants, had alleged that Krishna, Singh and Kumaraswamy along with many bureaucrats had conspired and allowed illegal ore mining on a large scale on forest land.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!